Chief Executive’s Report November 2019
THIS MONTH: News and Highlights
Eadestown Playground
The Eadestown Playground was officially opened on 09 October by the Mayor of the Naas Municipal District, Councillor Carmel Kelly (see page 31).
Kildare Young Filmmakers
Kildare Young Filmmakers won 3 awards at the Noise Flicks Film Festival in the IMC Tallaght in October
(see page 21).
Pride in your Place Awards The Pride in Your Place Awards and Tidy Towns competitions awards took place in Maynooth University on 30 October (see page 32).
Dates for Your Diary
Sallins Playground The official opening of Sallins Playground will take place on 22 November.
MAKEIT Food and Craft Christmas Fair
The MAKEIT Food and Craft Christmas Fair will take place at Áras Chill Dara on Thursday 28 November (see page 42).
Pride of Business Premises Awards Ceremony
The Awards Ceremony for the Pride of Business Premises competition will take place on Tuesday 03
December in the Kildare County Council Chamber.
Maynooth Library - Grá Gaeilge
Maynooth Community Library is set to become a Pop-up Gaeltacht - for one night only on Tuesday 19
November 2019 (see page 18).
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Corporate Services ...... 3 Finance and Information Technology ...... 3 Planning and Strategic Development ...... 4 Housing ...... 8 Library and Arts Service ...... 14 Water Services ...... 25 Environment ...... 27 Parks ...... 31 Economic, Community and Cultural Development ...... 32 Local Community Development Committee ...... 33 Kildare Fáilte ...... 34 Roads, Transportation and Public Safety ...... 36 Building and Development Control ...... 42 Local Enterprise Office (LEO) ...... 44
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Corporate Services brought to members attention at the October Corporate Policy Group Register of Electors (CPG) and plenary council meeting.
Draft Register 2020/2021 The Draft Register of Electors was Finance and Information published on 01 November 2019. Technology It is now on display at Kildare County
Council’s Offices, at local Garda Budget 2020 Meeting Stations, Libraries, Post Offices and The Statutory Budget Meeting will be online at www.checktheregister.ie held on Monday 18 November 2019. Claims to the draft register must be received before 25 November 2019. 2018 Audit Report The 2018 Audit Report was issued by the Local Government Auditor and he Corporate Plan 2019-2024 attended the Audit Committee meeting The Corporate Plan 2019-2024 will on Tuesday 07 November 2019 to be considered by the elected members discuss the report with the committee. at their meeting of 25 November 2019. The Audit Report is unmodified, which When the plan is approved it will be means that no changes were made to published on our website. the 2018 accounts by the Local Government Auditor. National Audit Oversight Committee (NOAC) Report for 2018 Financial Reports The NOAC report was published on Revenue Account Summary (see the 10 October. It was uploaded to the Appendix 1) Members Information Portal and
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Planning and Strategic Development
Regional Spatial and Economic County Development Plan Strategy (RSES) The Minister and the Office of the The Eastern and Midland Regional Planning Regulator were informed on Assembly (EMRA) adopted the RSES 26 July 2019 that Kildare County which came into effect on 28 June Council will be proceeding with a 2019. A Draft Ministerial Direction was development plan variation in served on EMRA on 07 August 2019 accordance with the Planning and concerning aspects of future rail Development Act 2000 (as amended). transport. A workshop was held with the members on 11 November 2019. The Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) Local Area Plans (LAP’s) The Office of the Planning Regulator Naas LAP organised training for elected The council, at its meeting on 29 July members in the planning process on 2019 resolved to not make the Draft 10 October in Limerick and 12 October LAP under Section 20 of the Planning in Dundalk. and Development Act, 2000 (as amended).
Leixlip LAP The material alterations to the Draft Leixlip LAP went on public display from 04 October 2019 to 01 November 2019, and the Chief Executive’s Report on submissions will be considered at a Special meeting in November.
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Planning applications received: Applications decided: Oct 2019 Oct Year Total Granted: 91 2017: 126 1,496 Retention: 18 2018: 122 1,601 Extension of Duration: 1 2019: 132 1,224 Total Refused: 29
Significant Planning Applications 19/164 Office of the Government October 2019 Chief Information Officer Permission was granted for a data 19/622 Maynooth University: centre and associated plant and Permission was granted for a new equipment rooms at Backweston Maynooth University Students Centre Campus, Ballymadeer, Celbridge. across two building blocks. 19/493 Farway Construction Limited Permission was granted for 10 18/1481 Lagan Homes dwellings at Johnstown, Permission was refused for 58 Johnstownbridge, Enfield, County residential dwellings at Newtown Kildare. Townland, Celbridge.
18/1514 Bord na Móna Powergen
Ltd. and ESB Wind Development
Ltd.
Permission was refused for a renewable energy development at
Drehid, Mulgeeth, Ballynamullagh,
Mucklon, Kilmurray, Killyon and
Timahoe East, County Kildare.
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Strategic Infrastructure Development Applications to An Strategic Housing Development Bord Pleanála (SID) Applications to An Bord Pleanála Drehid Waste Management Facility (SHD) (ABP Ref. 17/300506). The oral The Strategic Housing Development hearing concluded on 13 March 2019 (SHD) process was created in 2016 as and a decision is awaited from the a fast-track planning mechanism to Board. An application was made by facilitate the delivery of larger housing Bord na Móna Powergen Limited and projects. The SHD provisions came ESB Wind Development Limited (ABP into effect on 03 July 2017 and apply Ref. 18/303249) for a 110kV onsite for an initial period, until the end of Electric Substation at Timahoe East 2019. While the process originated as and a decision is awaited from the part of the Government’s Housing Board. Action Plan Rebuilding Ireland, it also has to be seen in the longer-term An application by Eirgrid plc (ABP Ref. context of the National Planning 19/304862) was lodged with An Bord Framework, which sets a target of Pleanála on 08 July 2019 for a providing over half a million new substation, underground circuits, etc. homes by 2040. Since the legislation in the townlands of Bogganstown, came into effect in July 2017, County Meath, and Leixlip, County applications for planning permission Kildare connecting the proposed for SHD’s are made directly to An Bord substation with electricity transformers Pleanála. within the Intel Ireland Facility, Leixlip. A decision is expected in early 2020.
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Recent Decisions Developer Location No of Units Decision Magee Ballymount Properties 19/305007 Barracks, 375 Granted Ltd. Kildare
Application Stage Developer Location No of Lodged ABP Units with ABP Decision Due 19/305416 Resource Five Ltd Newtown, Kill 147 13/09/19 TBA Naas West and Cairn Homes 19/305701 Jigginstown, 314 16/10/19 TBA Properties Ltd Naas
Department of Housing, Planning indicated that he shall sign an order, and Local Government (DHPLG) before the end of the current year, to Review Group on SHD’s. extend the SHD arrangements to 31 The report and recommendations of December 2021. The Minister is also the Department’s SHD Review Group considering some changes in issued in September. The conclusions operational practices by the Board, as of the Minister for Housing, Planning well as some minor legislative changes and Local Government on the review which will be incorporated in the next of the Strategic Housing Development available Planning and Development process were brought forward on 30 Bill which he intends to bring forward. October 2019. The Minister has
Part 8 Developments – Current Decisions/Proposals Ref Lead Dept. Details Launched 20 weeks Approved P82019.08 Transport Maynooth Eastern Ring 16/04/19 02/09/19 29/07/19 Road P82019.09 Community Community Centre, 20/08/19 06/01/20 01/11/19 Kilcock P82019.11 Environment Celbridge Civic Amenity 16/07/19 02/12/19 Site
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Housing
Capital Programme
Location No. of Units Status November 2019
Completed The Paddocks, 19 units 19 units completed and allocated December Kilcock 2017/February 2018. Defects liability period to conclude shortly. Athgarvan Road, 13 units Works complete and units have been allocated. Final Newbridge account and post project review being prepared. St. Patrick’s Park Refurb of 34 Units Lot 1 (6 units): completed Rathangan, (23 social and 11 Lots 2 - 5 (28 units) completed Remedial Works private) (Phase 1) Dunmurray Rise 32 units Units completed 25 October 2019. Kildare [Phase 3] In Progress Status November 2019
Beechgrove, 18 units Contractor on site. Expected completion Quarter 4, Rathangan 2019 subject to Irish Water connection. Anne Street 12 units Contractor on site. Expected completion Quarter 1, Prosperous 2020. Approval Stage 3 Status November 2019
Tankardsgarden, 8 units plus Alternative accommodation is being considered for Newbridge caretaker bay families currently resident in Tankardsgarden Athgarvan Village 19 units Part 8 was approved at the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting in November 2018. The main contract tender issued on 18 October 2019. The tender return is due on 06 December 2019.
Approval Stage 2 Status November 2019
St. Patrick’s Park Demolition of 21 Revised Stage 2 options discussion and agreed in Rathangan units, refurb of 19 principal with the Department of Housing, Planning Remedial Works units, construction of and Local Government (DHPLG) in mid-October. (Phase’s 2 and 3) 16 units. Revised Stage 2 application to be submitted. Briefing meeting to be arranged with the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District Committee. Rathasker Road, 70-100 units Consideration is being given to incorporating the Naas (depending on final adjacent site under the control of an Approved Housing Body (AHB) as a joint proposal to maximise ______
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agreement with AHB the potential of the site and to offset the cost of and Planning Dept) remediating the site and to provide a greater range of unit types. Proposal due from an AHB in mid- November. Coill Dubh 10 units Part 8 approved 19 December 2018. Civil/structural tenders have been received and assessed. Building services tenders are due mid Jan 2020. Approval Stage 1 Status November 2019
Old Greenfield, Rapid A design team was appointed in February 2019. Maynooth Build/Volumetric Revised proposal to increase density to 65-70 units Framework under consideration prior to completing Approval 65-70 units Stage 2 expected Quarter 1, 2020. Ardclough Road, 36 units A Service Site Funding (SSF) funding application has Celbridge been approved. Infrastructure requirements to be agreed with Transportation and a design team is to be appointed. Submission for Approval Stage 2 expected Quarter 2, 2020. Carbury 4 units A feasibility study is being carried out. Expect to submit Stage 1 approval Quarter 1, 2020. Former 35 units Stage 1 approval submitted to the DHPLG Quarter 3, Ambassador Hotel 2019. Revised approval Stage 1 to be submitted Site, Kill based on guidance from the DHPLG Oldtown Mill, 55-60 units Feasibility study being carried out. Expect to submit Celbridge. Stage 1 approval Quarter 1, 2020. Caragh Road Site, TBC Feasibility study/economic assessment in relation to Naas potential for provision of affordable units conducted on this site and established that the site is suitable for consideration for an element of affordable housing. Design studies to commence Quarter 4, 2019.
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Infill Schemes
Location No. of Units Status November 2019 Newtown House, 4 units Approval Stage 1 received. Proposed Approval Stage Leixlip 2 Quarter 4, 2019. Narraghmore 4 units Approval Stage 1 received from the DHPLG in July 2018. Proposed commencement of Part 8 Quarter 4, 2019. Glandore, Athy TBC Stage 1 approval received. Approval Stage 2 proposed Quarter 1, 2020. Skenagun, 1 existing refurb and Proposed Stage 1 approval submission to the DHPLG Castledermot 1 new-build to be prepared for submission by end Quarter 4, 2019. Proposed commencement of Part 8 Quarter 1, 2020
Acquisitions Completed Units Completed Units In Progress 2018 2019 Housing 186 133 120 Acquisitions Housing 39 64 92 Turnkeys Part V 30 43 224 Acquisitions
PPP Schemes
Location No. of Units Status November 2019 Craddockstown 74 units Commenced on site March 2019. Expected Road, Naas completion April 2020. Nancy’s Lane, 77 units Anticipated contract award week commencing on 11 Clane November 2019. To commence on site by end of November 2019. Ardrew, Athy TBC Ardrew site identified as preferred site for PPP Bundle 3.
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Approved Housing Body Schemes
Location No. of Units Status November 2019 Respond HA 35 units Part 8 approved at 24 July 2017. Respond to re- Flinter’s Field, Athy tender. Tuath HA 28 units Part 8 approved at Naas MD on 17 July 2018. At Castlefen, Sallins tender stage. Dominican Lands 25 units Stage 1 approval received July 2017. Athy Cluid nominated to progress the development of the site. ESB site Leixlip TBC Cluid nominated to progress the development of the site.
Approved Housing Body Schemes - Capital Assistance Scheme Approved Housing Body No. of Units Status November 2019 KARE 3 Units Part 8 planning application to be lodged Nov 2019.
Camphill 4 units at CAS - Stage 2 approval received on 03 October 2017. Communities of The Bridge, Kilcullen Planning application approved. Ireland Homeless Care 12 Apartments at CAS – Planning granted 01 May 2018. Homeless CLG Jigginstown House, Care CLG expect to award construction contract early Naas November 2019.
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Rebuilding Ireland Home Loans 2018 Approval Approval Approval Approval Expired Expired Remaining No. Amount Drawdown Drawdown No. Amount Approval No. Amount No.
Total 67 €14,480,997 15 €2,989,150 3 €623,000 49
2019 Approval Approval Approval Approval Expired Expired Remaining No. Amount Drawdown Drawdown No. Amount Approved No. Amount No.
January 1 €270,000 8 €1,920,947 3 €462,500 39 February 2 €365,600 6 €1,455,055 6 €1,031,200 29 March 2 €415,800 0 0 1 €288,000 30 April 0 0 6 €1,240,470 7 €1,665,130 17 May 0 0 4 €898,050 0 0 13 June 1 €220,000 2 €415,800 0 0 12 July 0 €0 3 €605,600 0 0 9 August 0 €0 2 €449,800 0 0 7 September 2 €305,000 0 0 0 0 9 October 6 €1,207,100 0 0 0 0 15
Total Approved to Date: €17,264,497 *Approvals continuing due to Total Drawn down to date: €10,160,922 expired loans Total currently committed in loan offers: €2,517,945 Total Expired: €4,585,630 Total available for lending: €2,321,133
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Families in Emergency Accommodation including Supported Temporary Accommodation and Family Hubs as at 31 October 2019
No. of Households with Duration Dependents Adults Dependents 0 - 6 Months 37 60 76 6 - 12 Months 17 29 40 12 - 18 Months 8 12 17 18 - 24 Months 2 2 6 24 - 30 Months 2 2 6 66 105 145
Families in Own Front Door Accommodation
No. of Households with Duration Dependents Adults Dependents 0 - 6 Months 1 1 4 6 - 12 Months 1 2 4 12 - 18 Months 0 0 0 18 - 24 Months 4 7 13 24 - 30 Months 1 2 3 30 - 36 Months 4 7 12
11 19 36
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Library and Arts Service
“You can borrow a book, but you get to keep the ideas!” Stephen
King
Age Friendly Library Recognition The Age Friendly Library Recognition Programme Programme is an initiative of Age Age Friendly Champion for Kildare Friendly Ireland, in conjunction with the Library Services, Evelyn Cooley was Libraries Development Committee and very pleased to accept the Age the CCMA to encourage libraries to Friendly Charter for Athy Library which develop in a more age friendly way. was selected as our Age Friendly Each local authority nominated one nominee by Michael Ring, TD, Minister library (in our case, Athy Library) to for Rural and Community Development become their Age Friendly Library, and in Kevin Street Library. in January 2019 Age Friendly Ireland provided training in age friendly
Background on the Charter principles to 48 libraries nationally. Following on from that training, our older patrons were surveyed, and They are as follows: based on feedback from that survey, • Continue the work started in Kildare Library Service came up with Athy Library to achieve a model three commitments for their Age of accessibility and inclusion Friendly Charter. with the requirements of older people in mind • Increase opening hours in the main Kildare branches • Review marketing for the OWL Age Friendly Programme to target a bigger, wider audience
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• Between now and the end of Implemented across all libraries the year, Older Person's nationally and that the Council members will visit LGMA/Age Friendly Ireland will libraries all over the county and work together to sustain the give feedback to the programme and publish programme guidelines.This is only the start of the Age Friendly Library • It is then envisaged that the Recognition Programme. programme would be
Judging by the Kildare Library survey Friendliness and in particular library results, users were very staff. complimentary about the Age
Local Studies Aspects of the Curragh Heritage Seminar The Local Studies Section of Kildare A new edition of Dr John Feehan’s Library Service is co-organising a long out of print book on the Curragh seminar ‘Aspects of the Curragh’, in Cuirreach Life will be launched at the association with the County Kildare event, along with the newly digitised Archaeological Society on Saturday 16 journals of the County Kildare November. This event will be Archaeological Society and the formal supported by Creative Ireland with the launch of the Abarta audio guide to the opening address by Cathaoirleach, Curragh. Councillor Suzanne Doyle. The event will feature a number of distinguished speakers exploring different aspects of the unique heritage of the Curragh.
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Decade of Commemorations Local Studies Committee (including 120 Years of The Local Studies Department Local Democracy Exhibition) continues to acquire a wide range of The work of the Decade of items of historic and contemporary Commemorations Committee relevance to County Kildare, including continues apace, with planning for postcards, ephemera and other rare 2020 events already underway. publications. The Library Service The Irish Military Seminar will again recently acquired a scrapbook take place in June 2020, while associated with the Aylmer Family of partnerships with local history groups Donadea, which offers interesting and community groups are again glimpses into the sporting lives of planned for throughout 2020. Key members of the aristocracy in 19th events which took place during 1920 Century Kildare as it includes will be commemorated in 2020 include interesting information on tennis and the Bloody Sunday events in Dublin in cricket events held in the grounds November 1920 (including the role of located in Oldtown Estate. An Kildare man Mick Sammon as referee autograph book from a County Kildare in the events in Croke Park), an internee in the Curragh Camp (War of ambush in Kill during the War of Independence period) has also been Independence and historic local recently donated to the collections. elections held in County Kildare in
1920. An exhibition marking ’120 Years of Local Democracy’ detailing STEAM Programme Events and key local government events over the Workshops for Primary School past 120 years is on display in Children Maynooth Library from 09 to 20 Primary schools throughout County December. This mobile exhibition, Kildare have availed of the opportunity curated by the Local Archivists and to sample free Science Workshops Record Managers Group, will and events organised by the Library subsequently go on display in Service throughout the month of Monasterevin Library in January and November to mark Science Week Leixlip Library in February. 2019. Among the highlights of the Science Week events taking place as ______
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______part of the STEAM Programme are: and Irish Wildlife Trust, Eccentric ‘Dinosaur Science’ with Dale Energy Shows with Dr Science Wows, Treadwell, ‘Pedal Power Lab’ with Paul Science Experiment Workshops for Finch, ‘Mad Professor Science Shows’ children and a visit by one of Ireland’s and Sustainable Energy Authority of leading STEAM communicators and Ireland Workshops with the Irish potential future astronaut Dr Niamh Peatland Conservation Council. Shaw. Planning is already underway for the 2020 STEAM Programme, with events for schools again planned to coincide Newbridge Science and Technology with Engineers Week, Tech Week, Community Exhibition Biodiversity Week, Science Week and The Library Service will also support Maths Week 2020. and host a stand at the Newbridge Science and Technology Community Exhibition which will be held in Science Foundation Ireland Funded Newbridge Town Hall on Saturday 16 Public Science Events for Adults, November. This free event for the Families and Children in Libraries wider community has been organised The Library Service received funding by Paul Brereton of Science Culture from Science Foundation Ireland Ireland and will give the Library earlier this year to host a range of Service an opportunity to promote the science workshops for individuals who digital services and facilities which may not traditionally have access to public libraries in County Kildare offer Science events. The month of today. November has seen over thirty public science events taking place in the seven main branch libraries. Separate Online Passports free events are being organised for Kildare Libraries are supporting and adults, families and children. Highlights promoting passport online services have included: a mobile planetarium throughout the county. Applicants are with Blackrock Castle Observatory, encouraged to use the libraries free Climate Change Workshops with the computer services to avail of this Irish Peatland Conservation Council worthy service. ______
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The Passport Service strongly Arts, Crafts, and a sense of encourages all applicants, both adults Community and children, to apply online for their As well as providing a wide variety of first passport using the cheaper, faster, arts, crafts, and creative activities for straight forward and more efficient children, Maynooth Community Library online service. runs two very successful craft groups for adults. There are 20-25 members across these two groups, meeting Maynooth Library weekly and bi-weekly. Membership Grá Gaeilge spans across all ages, from young au Maynooth Community Library is set to pairs to retirees, providing an become a Pop-up Gaeltacht - for one opportunity to meet new people, swap night only! Dé Máirt 19ú Lá déag Mí na stories and skills, and sometimes even Samhna/Tuesday 19 November 6:45 materials, over a cup of tea. Often a p.m. – 7:45 p.m. There will be games, new skill or project is taught, but key to chats, craic agus ceol. Fáilte roimh these groups' success is the social chách / All are welcome! element. Members have reported that attending is invaluable to their mental On Saturday 16 November Fizz and health. Some members may not have Chips Theatre Company are running visited the library for years before bilingual drama workshops in joining the craft groups and have now Maynooth Community Library as discovered there is a lot more for them Gaeilge agus Béarla. In this one-hour in the library such as talks, workshops, workshop, explore movement, sound, and help with eServices. and voice in a fun and friendly environment through Irish and English.
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Newbridge Community Storytime in Eyre Powell Direct Communiversity Provision Centre Newbridge Community Library Library staff will visit Eyre Powell for a continues to facilitate Communiversity special monthly Storytime and Craft every Tuesday morning throughout session. Taking place every fourth November. In association with Monday afternoon, the session Maynooth University and County incorporates an initial reading of a Kildare LEADER Partnership, storybook followed by a craft session Communiversity is a free 17-week based on the theme of the book. programme aimed at long term Based on their experiences at this unemployed and people supported session, children from Eyre Powell are under the Social Inclusion Community now visiting the library on a regular Activation Programme (SICAP). Up to basis attending the Wednesday 25 participants attend weekly classes Storytime session and Friday's Here covering four different modules - Local Come the Weekend activity club as History, Media Studies, Economy and well as availing of the various Us and Politics, Power and People. resources which the library collection offers. Career Guidance for residents of Eyre Powell Direct Provision Centre AsIAm Autism Experience In November the Library Service is Exhibition partnering with Eyre Powell Direct The AsIAm Autism Experience Provision Centre in providing special Exhibition is taking place in Athy, on-on-one CV tutorials for residents Celbridge, Naas libraries and Áras with career guidance counsellor Mr Chill Dara this November. Paul Aspell in the library. Feedback so Have you ever wondered what it is like far has been excellent with participants to have autism? noting how their prospects have AsIAm, Ireland’s National Autism improved considerably as a Charity, invite you to do just that. consequence with some already Visit the Autism Experience Exhibition gaining employment. where you will travel through a series of interactive experiences which will enable you to “step into the shoes” of a ______
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______person on the autism spectrum. Your children with Autism and additional journey through a range of exhibits will needs. The garden was landscaped by cover all of the senses, and you will Mr Enda Kinnane and Mr Alan discover some of the challenges in Gilgunn. This will be a child led communication, social interaction, and garden, where Toys, Training and sensory processing, all of which Technology (TTT) events such as people with autism face on a daily planting workshops and story time will basis. Upon leaving you will be take place. It is a space which will encouraged to make one change in evolve with the seasons with changing your community to help make the colour, textures, sounds and smells. world a more neuro-diverse and understanding place. Join AsIAm in Not only does the garden offer their mission towards building a more beautiful plants but also a multi- inclusive Ireland. textured garden path to explore, knitted decorations provided by Purls of Wisdom Knitting Group, and a Launch of Multi-Sensory Garden in beautiful wall mural painted by artist, Leixlip Community Library Ms Holly Delaney, featuring animals, The new Multi-Sensory Garden at plants and insects with a riot of colour Leixlip Community Library was and textures. This garden is a relaxing launched on Saturday 02 November. sanctuary for anyone who wants to The garden was officially opened by use it and aims to have a positive Councillor Michael Coleman, the effect on the health and wellbeing of Cathaoirleach for the Celbridge-Leixlip those who spend time there. Municipal District. Leixlip Community Library won the 2018 Library Association of Ireland (LAI) Project Prize for the idea of a Library Sensory Garden and used the €1000 prize to fund the creation of the garden. The garden was designed by Ms Sharon Curran as a space for everyone to enjoy, but it is particularly suitable for ______
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Castledermot Library Upgrade Centre on Wednesdays 13 November, Works and Refurbishment 08 December, 08 and 29 January from Castledermot Library will be 2:30 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. In addition, during temporarily closed to the public from this period library members can borrow Wednesday November 06 until early and return to any library in the country. 2020 for essential upgrade works. Library members can continue to avail These renovation and refurbishment of the online services which include works include: eBooks, eMagazines, music • Extensive conservation downloads and eAudio books at works to the original stained- anytime, anywhere. This service is glass windows. This work totally free of charge; fines are now requires temporary removal abolished in all library branches. of the stained glass to be Regular updates on the project will be worked on offsite communicated via social media facebook.com/KildareCountyLibrarySe • Full upgrade of the internal rvice and twitter.com/kildarelibrary lighting system to energy efficient lighting Kildare Young Filmmakers • Complete internal fit out to Kildare Young Filmmakers won 3 include study area, children awards at the Noise Flicks Film and young adult library, Festival in the IMC Tallaght in October. printing facilities, self-service They received awards for Best Film, options and adult library Best Director and Best concept. A local filmmaker had an article about his success winning the Best Film Award The furniture layout and design will for his short film title ‘Film’ in the allow for a community space for talks, Leinster Leader: workshops and small meetings. The https://www.leinsterleader.ie/news/loca internal decoration will be in keeping l-news/491391/kildare-teen-wins-top- with the heritage of the building. filmmaking-award.html In order to ensure minimum disruption to services the Mobile Library Service will visit Castledermot Community ______
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The sustained investment since the Return of the Arts Service groups inception in 2014 has seen the Newsletter group grow and develop with waiting In October Kildare Arts Service re- lists of young people aiming to join the launched their online Newsletter using group. Three former members of the the Cleverreach email distribution group have gone on to study film at programme. Prior to be being third level and one former member, discontinued in 2018 the Newsletter Ms Amy O’Reilly, recently cited the (formally the Arts e-bulletin) was a support of Kildare Arts Service and valuable resource in promoting the Kildare Young Filmmakers in helping work of Kildare Arts Service and arts her realise her ambitions of studying activities and opportunities taking film at third level. place around the county.
Earth Writings: Bogs, Forests, Maynooth Film for All – Ash is the Fields and Gardens | Group Exhibition at Maynooth University Purest White Librar: 18 - 29 November 2019 Now in its twelfth year, the Maynooth This multi-media group exhibition Film for All Film Club continues to offer highlights eco-community engaged a broad range of Irish and World practices of four artists working with cinema to film lovers in Kildare. peoples/natures in peatlands,
woodlands, fields and cities in south In November, the critically acclaimed west Ireland. Works include video, Chinese, French production ‘Ash is the books, paintings, sketchings, prints on Purest White’ was showcased in aluminum, grafted trees, blogs and Maynooth University. other interventions by artists: Ms
Monica de Bath (Kildare County), Ms The Maynooth Film for All Film Club is Cathy Fitzgerald (County Carlow), Ms a partnership between Kildare County Pauline O’Connell (County Kilkenny) Council Library and Arts Service and and Ms Seodín O’Sullivan (Dublin). the English Department and Media Their creative-ecological practices call Studies @ Maynooth University attention to the diversity of the ways
human societies are mutually ______
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______constituted with and through their gardens-group-exhibition-at-maynooth- natural worlds and environments, university-library/ rejecting dominant growth-based strategies of sustainable development. At times of ecological crisis, rapidly Music and Health - Choral changing weather systems, and Programme species extinctions, there is much to Both Past Times Community Choir learn from these artists who ‘stay with (Naas) and Voices of Spring the trouble’ (Haraway, 2016) to realise Community Choir (Celbridge) are at healthier environmental relations. max capacity now and no longer open for new members, with a waiting list in Taking place during national Science place for both choirs. The choirs and GeoWeeks, the exhibition will be operate on a needs-based waiting list complemented by a symposium, for any future potential members. launch, class visits, and future Queries about joining the choir can be webpage and publication to invite a directed to Carolann on 045 448316/ broader public to think differently about [email protected] how we can begin caring for our wounded environments and create more sustainable futures. Music and Health - Hospital Programme The programme is supported by the The music on the ward programme Irish Research Council New and day hospital sessions will Foundations STEAM Scheme, recommence in November. This will be Creative Ireland, Kildare County a fortnightly programme engaging Council Arts Service, Maynooth patients, staff and visitors in music University Department of Geography, whilst in the hospital. Maynooth University Library, and the Space&Place and Ómós Áite Research Collaboratives. https://visualartists.ie/events/earth- writings-bogs-forests-fields-and- ______
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Visual Arts and Health - General Emerging Visual Artist Bursary Information Award – Exhibition in Riverbank Mr John Conway was selected as Arts Centre artist in residence for Naas Day Care Centre. The centre was awarded the Many congratulations to Ms Michelle residency by Age and Opportunity and McBride, recipient of Kildare County was supported by the arts, health and Council's Emerging Visual Artist wellbeing specialist in applying for the bursary award in 2018 and supported award and selecting the artist. He by Riverbank Arts Centre, which has commenced the residency in October. culminated in 'State of RoY' a thoughtful exhibition of work which launched on Saturday 09 November. 'The State of RoY' is the first solo exhibition by Michelle which explores
entrenched notions of history, tradition
and destruction. The exhibition runs until Friday 20 December 2019.
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Water Services
Infrastructural Projects
Contract 2A (Newbridge Eastern Osberstown Sludge Treatment Interceptor Sewer) Facility DBO Contract Variation The contract was signed by Irish Water Veolia Water Ireland is advancing and Roadbridge on 20 February and it works on this variation to the DBO has a 24 month construction contract. programme. Work is progressing well on site. Murphy International Ltd., on behalf of Lidl (subject to an Irish Water Maynooth Transfer Pipeline agreement), is laying part of the This project involves the upgrading of Eastern Interceptor Sewer along the the existing Maynooth Sewerage route of the Newbridge Outer Orbital Pumping Station and the construction Relief Road between the dual of a new sewerage pipeline along a carriageway and the Great Connell new route from the pumping station to Road. These works are now well the Leixlip Wastewater Treatment advanced. Plant. This project is at planning and design stage. Irish Water has commenced engagement with Contract 2B (Network) landowners as part of the land and The contract was signed by Irish Water wayleave process. and Coffey Construction Ltd On 08
August 2019 and it has a 30 month construction programme. Capital Projects
Works commenced on site in September 2019. Kilmeague Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) Upgrade The plant was commissioned in late
September 2019. It is being operated by the contractor for three months
during a process proving period before
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handover to operations in early Water Networks Projects January 2020. Newbridge Town Watermain
Rehabilitation Works Allenwood Sewerage Network All works are currently under review for (Vacuum System) Modification the remainder of 2019 regarding the The legacy land issue has been Water Network Programme Schemes, resolved. as Irish Water’s targets have been met and exceeded for this year. As a Timolin WWTP Upgrade result, the following projects are now This project is being assessed by Irish likely to commence in 2020: Water Asset Planning under the • Highfield, Newbridge Back Yard National Certificate of Authorisation Services (BYS) Scheme. Programme (NCAP) Process and a • Piercetown, Newbridge BYS site assessment report is being Scheme finalised by Irish Water’s consultants. • St. Patricks Terrace, Naas BYS
Scheme. Rathangan WWTP Upgrade • Dublin Road, Naas Mains This project will now have to be Rehabilitation Project progressed as a Capital Scheme rather than through operations. Pairc Mhuire, Newbridge BYS
scheme Works on site have resumed in Pairc Allenwood North WWTP Upgrade Mhuire, Newbridge, as of 14 October. This work is scheduled for tender in A total of 1230 metres of new HDPE Quarter 4, 2019. watermain have since been installed
as part of this scheme. Customer private side service connection works are due to commence on the week
commencing 18 November.
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Kildare Town Watermain Environment Rehabilitation Works Catchment Flooding Watermains have been laid in
Rowanville, Lourdesville, Cleamore Catchment Flood Risk Assessment Terrace, Assumpta Villas and Campion Crescent. The transfer of and Management Study (CFRAMS) services is ongoing. A number of Meetings have taken place with the customers have yet to provide consent Office of Public Works (OPW) to allow for the completion of the regarding the prioritisation of works. private side works so that A Steering Group with the OPW has decommissioning works can be been established to progress the completed in these estates. This work consultants brief for the Naas study cannot commence until all customers and Leixlip scheme. The municipal consent has been obtained. districts will be briefed on the emerging CFRAM Programme. Taghadoe to Maynooth Watermain
Replacment Morell Flood Management Scheme Upgrade works and decommissioning A Judicial Review has been lodged works have now been completed. The against An Bord Pleanála’s decision. new section of watermain is now live. Kildare County Council, as notice party Permanent road reinstatement works cannot commence any works until the have yet to be completed as part of review is heard or withdrawn. Efforts this scheme. are ongoing to resolve issues.
Progress is being made. Suncroft Village – Transfer of
Service Connections Athy Flood Modeling This scheme is now under review and Scenarios have been completed works will now not proceed in 2019. meaning that the proposed flood measure can be adopted into the Local Area Plan (LAP) as part of the Dominican Masterplan, subject to the approval of the elected members.
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Hazelhatch Cemeteries The contract for a further hydrological study into flooding at Hazelhatch has Athy Cemetery been awarded to RPS Ireland. Delivery Further surfacing works have been of revised mapping of the area is completed in the cemetery. scheduled for end of Quarter 4, 2019, with preliminary flood risk Churchtown Cemetery management options report due in Works are complete. Quarter 1, 2020. The revised mapping The columbarium wall has yet to be will be used by the OPW to update completed. flood extents in the catchment. Kildare Town Cemetery Kerdiffstown The updated design for upgrade works Taking possession of properties under is now in hand and subject to ongoing the CPO is now complete. discussion with the local cemetery An advanced works contract is near committee. completion in connection with the St Vincent de Paul property. Newbridge Cemetery
The L2005 realignment contract has Tenders are being assessed. been awarded to David Walsh Civil Work on the upgrade of the car park is Engineering. Shortlisting of candidates to commence before end of year. for the main contract has been completed. Tenders are to be issued Columbarium Walls at Derrinturn, before Christmas. Rathangan, Newbridge and Crookstown A consultant has been appointed to deliver a new columbarium wall for Derrinturn Cemetery. A separate competition has been advertised to procure the delivery of the walls in Rathangan, Newbridge and Crookstown.
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Eastern and Midlands Climate community training programme has Action Regional Office (CARO) commenced and is being well All governance arrangements are in attended. place. Partnership with Kilkenny County Council was formally signed on New Initiatives 11 October. A sectoral training plan Countywide Green Kilometer has been finalised and approved 17 applications have been received following presentation to the County and are currently being assessed. and City Management Associateion
(CCMA). The training plan was further presented to all local authority Training Civic Amenity Site North Officers on Tuesday 05 October. All The Part 8 is listed for consideration at (17) adaptation plans in the Eastern the Celbridge-Leixlip Municipal District and Midlands Region have been Meeting scheduled for Friday 15 approved. The CARO’s are now November 2019. developing a strategy implementation
KPIs for agreement at a national level. Dog Pound The CARO has also commenced Works are scheduled to be completed working with the constituent local by end of year. authorities in relation to the actions contained within the Government
Climate Action Plan. Rathangan Public Realm
The Part 8 is to be published shortly. Kildare Climate Action Team A presentation was made to the The Chief Executive’s Report on the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District draft adaptation strategy was approved Committee on 29 July 2019. at the plenary council meeting on 23
September. A successful climate Kilcullen Public Realm summer camp for younger people was A presentation was made to the delivered over the summer in Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District conjunction with the Irish National Committee on 29 July 2019. The Stud. The Kildare LEADER Environment Section is to revert to the ‘Communities 4 Climate Action’
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members at the November meeting progress to the formal statutory with further details/information prior to consultation stage. commencing the Part 8 process. Public Realm Upgrade for Monasterevan Public Realm Newbridge A presentation on the initial public A working draft has now been consultation event was made to the completed and was presented to the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District Committee on 29 July 2019. Committee on 16 October and will now progress to formal statutory Public Realm Upgrade for Kildare consultation stage. Town A working draft has now been Management of The Curragh Plains completed and was presented to the An agreement has been reached with Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District the Department of Defence and is now Committee on 08 October and will now progressing to tender stage.
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Parks Property Tax and Development Levies collected in the area.
Eadestown Playground
The official opening of the Eadestown Tree Works Programme Tenders have been issued for tree Playground took place on 09 October. works in Celbridge/Leixlip and Naas Municipal Municipal Districts. The closing date for receipt of tenders was 15 November for Celbridge/Leixlip and 22 November for Naas. It is planned to have the Maynooth Municipal District tendered by the middle of November and Kildare/Newbridge by the end of The opening was performed by the the month. Mayor of the Naas Municipal District, Councillor Carmel Kelly. The playground has been open for use Spring Bulb Planting since June. It cost €180k which was A small programme of bulb planting funded by Local Property Tax. will be carried out in early December to add Spring colour to the Sallins Road Roundabout. A pollinator friendly mix Sallins Playground of Crocus, Anemones and Muscari. The official opening of Sallins Some daffodils will be planted in Kilkea Playground will take place on 22 Village also. November. The opening will be performed by the Mayor of the Naas Municipal District, Councillor Carmel
Kelly. Work on the playground was completed in July. The project cost
€230k which was funded by Local
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Economic, Community and Cultural Development
Pride in your Place Awards Prize-winners gathered at Maynooth University on 30 October for the County Kildare Pride in your Place and Tidy Towns competitions. Kildare County Council hosted a prize-giving ceremony for the winners who included young people, gardeners, She thanked the groups and individual Residents’ Associations and Tidy citizens who had taken part, for their Towns committees from across the work and achievements in their county. The Cathaoirleach of Kildare communities. Prizes were also County Council, Councillor Suzanne presented by the Leas Cathaoirleach, Doyle presented prizes to the various Kildare County Council, Councillor individuals and groups. Seamie Moore and by the Mayors/Cathaoirligh of the municipal districts.
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Community Grants 2019 under the various grant schemes The table below outlines the grants administered by the Community awarded to date across the county Department
Grant Scheme No. of Grants Amount Awarded
Community Grant 183 €242,978
Festival Grant 78 €131,656 LPT Grants (groups nominated by councillors) 153 €771,022
Private Residents’ Associations 250 €211,262
Local Authority Residents’ Associations 73 €66,088 LPT Grants (Sports-Athy Municipal District) 30 €30,000 LPT Grants (Projects- Residents’ Associations- Celbridge/Leixlip Municipal District) 18 €19,444 Drehid Grants Scheme 32 €236,445 817 €1,708,895
Local Community Development Committee
The last Local Community An audit of Healthy Ireland 2 took - Development Committee (LCDC) place over 29 30 October by Pobal on meeting was held on Wednesday 24 behalf ofthe Department. September 2019.
Healthy Ireland Social Inclusion Community The submission for funding Activation Programme (SIACP) under Healthy Ireland 3 is still The SICAP sub group met with County being considered by Pobal Kildare LEADER Partnership (CKLP) on behalf of the Department of to discuss the draft SICAP plan 2020. Health. An announcement is The plan is due for submission on 15 expected shortly.
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November. This will be reviewed and Rural Development LEADER presented to the next LCDC meeting. The LCDC Rural Development sub group is meeting on Thursday 14. This Heads Up (Mojo) meeting will prepare for the upcoming The Heads Up Programme in LCDC meeting. Maynooth is underway. Referral levels were high, with very positive The next LCDC meeting will be held engagement. on Wednesday 27 November 2019.
Kildare Fáilte
In October training and a full commissioned from 2018 school. orientation took place for a new starter The Cathaoirleach of Kildare, with introductions to key stakeholders. Councillor Suzanne Doyle addressed A number of events took place in the audience and other key members October. Kildare Fáilte representatives of council also attended. attended a photo call at the statue of Shackleton in Athy to launch the first go plastic free conference in the County and Nationally. The official accreditation certificate was signed and presented and this great initiative was communicated to the press and A Shackleton cup and pen was given media. The launch of the opening of to guests to use during the event. A the 19th Shackleton Autumn School press release was issued with official took place on 25 October and the photographs. The Shackleton Autumn event was attended by over 50 people. school continues to be a significant Kildare Fáilte organised the official contributor to tourism in the area reception in Athy Library including during this off-peak shoulder period. presentations, refreshments, music and a video of Shackleton which was
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The Kildare Fáilte Chief Executive Face to face meetings took place with Officer, Ms Áine Mangan attended the 20 key business and incentive buyers. International Golf Travel Market Kildare Fáilte also presented to the (IGTM), an annual international trade group and showed a short film of other show as a guest of the International attractions in the county. Follow up is Association of Golf Tour Operators in action and feedback to date is (IAGTO). Other Kildare members in excellent. attendance were Carton House and The K Club as well as Tourism Ireland Kildare Fáilte’s board meeting was and Fáilte Ireland. held in advance of the launch of the new virtual reality experience in A final planning meeting was held with Kildare Heritage Centre and all board the convention bureau in advance of members and the chairman attended Kildare Fáilte’s event in Windsor in the to support and promote. Meetings took UK. Kildare at the Races took place at place regarding social media, public Windsor Racecourse and was a great relations and print and design as well success. A brochure was produced for as follow up on a film commissioned the key buyers at this event promoting on Kildare. Membership enquiries and Kildare and all trade members in fee collection were followed up and attendance. Those who attended from ongoing meetings supporting tourism Kildare were Ms Áine Mangan, Chief providers and members in the county. Executive Officer, Kildare Fáilte and Ms Mangan visited the new Ardclough the Chairman, Dublin Convention Visitor Center and met with the team Bureau, Kildare Village, Irish National looking at tourism support and Stud, Punchestown Racecourse, Naas incorporated Arthurs Trail in this. She Racecourse, Carton House, Kilkea also attended the Naas Town Team Castle and Golf Resort, Glenroyal meeting and met with the Naas Hotel and Leisure Club, Cliff at Lyons, Christmas Market team in relation to KIlashee House Hotel, The K Club, re-funding and exploring the possibility Dynamic Events and Orangeworks. of working together for 2020.
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Roads, Transportation and Public Safety Coghlanstown Slope Remediation Project, Ballymore Eustace
Construction works began on the Celbridge to Hazelhatch Link Road Coghlanstown Slope Remediation (incl. Celbridge Second Liffey project in September 2019. Works are Crossing) - Urban Regeneration progressing well on site. A temporary Development Fund (URDF) Scheme diversion of the River Liffey has been The tender process has commenced implemented to facilitate slope to engage an engineering consultant stabilisation works. Works are due to for the Celbridge to Hazelhatch Link be completed in Quarter 1/Quarter 2, Road (incl. Celbridge Second Liffey 2020. Crossing). Kildare County Council secured URDF funding to progress this scheme through the initial planning M7 Widening, Osberstown and design stages. It is expected that Interchange and Sallins Bypass a consultant will be appointed in Project Quarter 1, 2020. SIAC Construction Ltd/Colas Ltd. is
the contractor. The contractor has
opened 3 lanes both eastbound and Maynooth North - South Corridor, westbound from Junction 8 Johnstown Phase 6, Moyglare Road to Junction11 (M7/M9 merge). As Construction works began on the works are continuing in this area an Moyglare Road in April 2019 and are 80kph speed limit is in place. progressing well on site. The majority of underground works for services etc. have been completed. It is hoped that Maynooth Eastern Relief Road and the southern section of the scheme, Bridge from the Kilcock Road to the Cairn The preferred route option, (C), was Homes site will be substantially presented in committee to the completed by the end of this year. The Maynooth Municipal District overall contract is due to be completed Committee on 05 April. The Clane- in Quarter 1, 2020. Maynooth Municipal District
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Committee confirmed approval of the the expected completion date is the Part 8 in respect of Option C on 29 end of 2019. July. Detailed design and CPO preparation stages are now underway. Newbridge Outer Orbital Route Naas Road to Great Connell Road Athy Distributor Route Newbridge: Construction has An Bord Pleanála’s approval issued on progressed well to date and much of 11 October 2017. A Notice of the realignment of the south bound Confirmation for the Athy Distributor lane of the R445 is complete – Road was published in the Nationalist underground services, kerbing, and Leinster Leader on 28 November footpaths, roundabout, traffic islands, 2017. No objections/Judicial Reviews road surfacing, public lighting and line were received by the deadline on 23 marking. The estimated completion January 2018. €3 million was included date is Quarter 4, 2019. in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) road Northern Link Street and South grants 2019 for this project. Notices to Green Area Access Improvement treat have been issued. Notice of entry Scheme (Kildare Town) on lands has been issued. Advance The route selection process is ongoing works between Corran Árd and and consultation with Iarnród Éireann Fortbarrington Road have been has commenced regarding the design completed. The railway abandonment of an upgrade/replacement bridge over is complete. The removal of the rails the railway. A briefing was delivered and sleepers will be the next visible to the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal sign of works. A further advance District Committee on 12 June. A non- contract is under procurement. statutory Public Consultation was held on 18 June at the Kildare Education Maynooth Inner Relief Street Centre. All submissions received will Moyglare Road to Dunboyne Road – be considered and the route selection Planning approval was issued by An process will reach a conclusion in the Bord Pleanála to Cairn Developments coming months. Plc. Works are progressing well and
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Naas Municipal District 2019 • Brannockstown footpath – complete Naas Municipal District Footpath Works Naas Municipal District Road The Naas Municipal District is at Improvement Works 2019 tender/construction stage for The first package of works (Works improvement works to footpath and Package 1) is now complete. It associated works at the following includes the following works locations: locations within the Naas Municipal District: • Section A: L6039 Crab Road • The Gables, Kill (footpath • Section B: L20113 improvements) – complete Bishopscourt, Kill • The Park, Naas (footpath • Section C: L20102 Alasty improvements) – complete • Section D: L6012 • Sallins Road, Naas (footpath Sherlockstown, Sallins improvement) – complete • Section E: L60601 McLoughlins • St. Brigid’s Avenue, Kilcullen Lane, Boleybeg (road and footpath • Section F: L6035 Naas Rugby improvements) – complete Club to the Red House • Relocate bus stop, Sallins – • Section G: L6043 complete Craddockstown • Sallins controlled pedestrian • Section H: L2004 Digby Bridge crossing improvements – complete The second package of road • Newbridge Road, Naas footpath improvement projects (Works Package works – complete 2) is now complete. It includes the • Resurfacing of Abbey Street following works locations: Car Park, Naas – complete • Hazlemere road repairs – • Section A: L6011 Turnings, complete Sherlockstown-Daars • Main Street, Naas – At • Section B: L20042 Blackhall, construction Stage Clane
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• Section C: R407 Bodenstown- Emergency Drainage Works Clane The Naas Municipal District has • Section D: L6076 Castlefish carried out the following drainage (Nicholastown) works: • Section E: Bishopshill, Ballymore Eustace • Main Street, Sallins – Repairs • Section F: Dunshane to the drainage system at the • Section G: Walterstown, Sallins shops/apartments on the R407 • Section H: L2023 Punchestown, opposite Sallins Bridge. This Naas work is now complete. • Section I: L200610 Osberstown Cottages, Sallins • Lakelands, Naas – Repairs to the collapsed pipe exiting the lakes and the removal of trees The third package of road causing the problem (root improvement projects (Works Package ingress). This work is now 3) is at construction stage. It includes complete. the following works locations:
• Section A: Main Street, Naas Surface Dressing Works Ballymore Eustace The Naas Municipal District have • Section B: Tipper Road, Naas recently completed the surface • Section C: Abbey Bridge, Naas dressing works programme for 2019 in the Naas Municipal District including: The fourth package of road improvement projects (Works Package • R412 – Dunlavin Road (south of 4) is at tender stage. It includes the Brannockstown) following works locations: • L2023 – Punchestown Road (Between Beggars end and • Section A: R407, Sallins Watchouse Cross) • L2009/L2018/L2019/L2021 – Boston Hill, Tuckmilltown, Oughterard
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• L2020 – Military Road • L2018 – Kilteel Road Safety • L6038 – Rathmore to Redbog European Road Safety Summer School Road Safety Local Property Tax (LPT)/Carpark Funded Works 2019 The following is a summary of works The LPT/Carpark funded works carried out by the Road Safety Section programme for 2019 has been agreed in October 2019: by the Naas Municipal District Committee. The Naas Municipal • Cycle Safety initiatives District is delivering the road and • School Visits on Road Safety footpath improvement elements of this and Cycling programme on an ongoing basis. • RSA/Garda/RSO Conference, Athlone • Local Authority RSO’s receive Low Cost Safety Scheme 15 Virtual Reality goggles from The Low Cost Safety Improvement Aviva Insurance Road Safety Scheme for Corbally Crossroads is at Unit construction stage. It is proposed to • Road Safety Week complete the works by the end of the • Annual Road Safety Academic year. lecture • AXA Road Safety Roadshow • School Visits on Road Safety and Cycling • ‘Get a Grip’ – Tyre Safety campaign • Project EDWARD
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Kildare Civil Defence Fire Service Kildare Civil Defence assisted at the Up to 31 October 2019 Kildare Fire following events in October 2019: Service responded to 1,261 operational incidents which resulted in • Tony Donoghue Memorial Run – Moone/Timolin 1,541 station responses (see • Lions Club Sponsored Walk – breakdown below). Some incident The Curragh types required more than one station • Barretstown – St. Kevin’s Way to respond. Challenge – Assisting Dublin and Wicklow
Operational Calls
Station Total Calls Total Calls 2018 October 2019
Newbridge 460 375
Naas 503 364
Athy 266 180
Maynooth 322 269
Monasterevin 214 155
Leixlip 245 198
TOTAL 2,010 1,541
No. Inspections No. Premises Inspected
2018 88 85
2019 67 64
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No. Fire Safety Complaints
2018 18
2019 13
No. Fire Safety Certificates
2018 204
2019 150
No. Planning File Comments
2018 518
2019 378
Building and Development Control
Building Control (figures to end of October 2019) 2018 2019 Commencement Notices Total Number of Commencement Notices received: 662 541
Number of Valid commencement notices received: 618 527
Number of Invalid commencement notices received: 44 14
No. of Inspections carried out on Commencement 109 188 Notices
2018 2019 Certificates of Compliance on Completion Total Number of Certificates received: 644 498
Number Valid 629 497
Number Invalid 15 1
Awaiting processing - -
Additional Information
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Number of Inspections carried out 23 126
2018 2019 Disability Access Certificates
Total Number of Disability Access Certificates received: 139 98
Number granted: 130 117
Number refused: 0 0
Number of Inspections carried out 35 17
Building Control Active Sites 2018 2019
Number of units inspected 107 1477
Development Control 2019
Active Sites At 31/12/2018
Number of Sites with house construction 64 83
Number of Sites where all units complete but 36 36 snags not complete
Estates that require Monitoring/Maintenance 19 (Ballintine Park – Waste
Water Treatment Plant up and running)
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Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Elected members please advise your weekly business advice clinics constituents that the LEO office is continue across the county in 2019 always open to discuss their idea, email [email protected] business needs or grant availability,
Funding Applications Awarded From 10 September – 08 November Export Start-up/ Web Development Marketing Expansion/Priming Shopfront Approved Grant Grant Grants €6,941 €16,400 €94,981 €6,117
Local Enterprise
Development Services
National Women’s Enterprise Day event also featured panel speakers On Thursday 17 October, the annual from Enterprise Ireland, Carlow IT, LEO Office initiative, National Micro Finance Ireland, DCU Ryan Women’s Enterprise Day took place at Academy and the County Kildare the Curragh Racecourse. 148 local Leader Partnership entrepreneurs and businesswomen participated in the networking event. Mid-East Regional Innovation The keynote speaker on the day was Conference founder of global skincare brand and On Thursday 31 October, Kildare National Enterprise Award 2019 County Council’s LEO partnered with winner, Newbridge woman, Ms Sonia Meath, Wicklow and Carlow Enterprise Deasy of Pestle and Mortar. Other Offices to present the Mid-East speakers included RTÉ Radio and TV Regional Innovation Conference on at Broadcaster Ms Lottie Ryan, Ms the Osprey Hotel, Naas. The Maureen McCowen of Soft Skills event aimed to celebrate the thriving Success, Ms Tracy O’Brien of The culture of innovation that exists People Password Ltd. and Intertrade throughout the Mid-East Region, and Ireland’s Ms Deirdre Maguire. The to recognise the increased demand
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from small businesses for support in https://www.localenterprise.ie/Kildare/ innovation, and the increase in News/MAKEIT-Food-and-Gift-Fair- demand on the Mid-East Local 2019.html (Closing date 15 November Enterprise Offices from the emerging 2019). technology sector for support in their The LEO Kildare would also like to development. The event hosted world invite you and your families to attend renowned speaker, innovation expert the fair. MAKEIT is a place to pick up and author of best-selling Non-Bullshit homemade Christmas gifts and Innovation: Radical Ideas from the promises to be a festive evening, World's Smartest Minds, Mr David featuring a live performance from the Rowan and disruptive e-commerce Kildare County Council Choir, a live and social media entrepreneur Mr feed with KFM as well as a visit from Seánie Walsh. The event also Mr Claus. featured panel speakers from
Maynooth University, Enterprise Ireland, Carlow IT, UCD and Grant National ‘Start’ Campaign Thornton. The National ‘Start’ Campaign was launched at the beginning of October, MAKEIT Food and Craft Christmas 'Start' is a national campaign Fair developed by the LEO’s aimed at Following the success of last year’s ensuring innovative startups get the event, the Christmas culinary and funding and supports they need to craft expo returns to Áras ChillDara on develop their business or grow a Thursday 28 November. The LEO business idea. It was developed to Kildare are seeking expressions of generate new leads for the LEO’s, with interest from craft and food producers the anticipation to convert into viable in County Kildare who wish to be grant fundable enterprises. Please considered for the opportunity to encourage any municipal districts showcase their business. If you know constituents you feel may be of any municipal district interested, to visit the Start website constituents who may be of at https://startupnow.ie/ interest, Expressions of Interest forms can be found at:
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National Productivity Voucher productivity vouchers valued at €2,500 This month saw the launch of the each, to help develop a more efficient Productivity Challenge. The and productive business operation. If Productivity Challenge is a national you know of any municipal district programme which supports Ireland’s constituents who may be interested, small businesses and enterprises, by please encourage them to visit the providing them with advisory and following website: training resources to enhance https://www.productivitychallenge.ie/ productivity and efficiency. Small Irish (Closing date 22 November). businesses can apply for one of 200
Economic Development Services MERITS Pride of Business Premises The completion of the MERITS (Mid- Awards Ceremony East Region Innovation Think Space) The Awards Ceremony for the Pride of building in Naas will realise a vision to Business Premises competition will serve the emerging technology sector take place on Tuesday 03 December by connecting organisations and in the Kildare County Council people and acting as a centre of Chamber. Launched in July, the excellence in supporting innovative competition aims to recognise local companies across county and wider property owners who maintain a high region. MERITS was awarded nearly level of visual appearance to their €2 million in funding from Enterprise premises. Five winners and five runner Ireland and has also received ups will be selected from across the significant financial support from five municipal districts in County Kildare County Council. The tender for Kildare as well as one overall winner. this project was published in July and The ceremony evening will offer light Duggan Lynch are the successful refreshments and all elected members contractors. Construction is starting on are invited to attend. site on the week of the 11 November and the building is due to be completed by November 2020.
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Athy Food, Drink and Skills Donnachadh O’Brien Engineers Innovation Hub worked with the team on the feasibility Launched by Minister Heather study design for the project and Humphreys in April, the conversion of application and a pre planning meeting the historic Model School in Athy into a is due to take place in November. centre for educational and entrepreneurial excellence for the food Kildare Food and Beverage Strategy sector will promote economic Kildare County Council has identified development and creative learning for the food, drink and hospitality sector in Athy and surrounding areas. The Athy the county as an economic growth Food, Drink and Skills Innovation Hub area which requires a strategy that will comprise a: supports initiatives which will further develop and enhance the sector. The • Skills Hub Economic Unit tendered for a food and • Community Timeshare beverage strategy and James Burke Incubator Kitchen and Associates were awarded the • Community Food Discover contract in August. The consultants Centre are carrying out research currently and • Co-Working/Collaboration Zone engaging with key stakeholders to seek their views. Three stakeholder Coca Cola have provided an initial meetings and a consumer focus group funding investment for the project. have also taken place in October. A The Economic Development Team food survey was also launched on submitted an application for funding for www.localfoodviews.com to ascertain this ambitious project to the Regional the views of the wider public. The Enterprise Development Fund at the strategy is due to be published in end of September. The application Quarter 4, 2019. was assessed, and the project team delivered a presentation to the Enterprise Ireland evaluation team on 22 October. A final decision on funding is expected from Enterprise Ireland before the end of the year.
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Equine Innovation Centre @ The submission to Kildare LEADER. In co- Irish National Stud operation with the Economic Unit in The establishment of this facility at the Meath County Council, Kildare County Irish National Stud will act as a Council jointly tendered for the sectoral stimulus to develop an equine provision of a commuter survey for the innovation hub of enterprise, county. Interactions Ltd. were awarded innovation, applied research, the contract in late July and the commercialisation and learning. commuter survey went live on the 02 Uniquely, it will offer a single access September and closed on Friday 11 source of equine technical and October. Over 2,800 people completed entrepreneurial innovation. The hub the survey in Kildare. The results of will consist of the survey will assist Kildare County • Co-working and incubation Council in both identifying the facilities commuting patterns of residents within • Team collaboration/co-creation the county and the skills base that units currently exists here. The survey • Shared Facilities results will be published by the end of the year. Kildare County Council is working with Further information in relation to the The Irish National Stud on this project survey can be found on: and an application for funding to www.kildarecoco.ie/business/commute renovate the space identified is rsurvey currently being prepared for
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Ongoing Entrepreneurship Support Soft Supports Summary Services The LEO will be launching the new
season of Spring training courses in Brexit Supports mid-December. Please advise your Brexit remains very high on the municipal district constituents of the agenda and a series of interventions Start Your Own Business, Digital have been put in place, including site Marketing, Taxation, Customs visits to the businesses most at risk to Training, Management Development look at the potential impacts, and LEAN approach to management formalities and procedures businesses courses that are on offer. All courses will need to adopt when trading with a can be booked at: country which is outside the Single https://www.localenterprise.ie/Kildare/T Market and Custom Unions. raining-Events/Online-Bookings/ Please encourage SME owners of your municipal district to fill out the Brexit Scorecard to assess exposure.
Brexit Scorecard: https://prepareforbrexit.virtual- adviser.com/
Full list of Brexit supports: https://mailchi.mp/69ab763db83d/brexi t-is-coming-and-were-here-to-help- 2918709
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Chief Executive’s Report - November 2019 Page 49 of 50
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Grant Aid If your constituents are interested in any of the grant aid below, please advise them to contact 045 98096 or [email protected]
TOVS – Trading online vouchers are available to the value of €2,500 (50% of eligible costs up to the maximum of €2,500) Available to any business with less than 10 employees. TAME – This grant can part-fund the costs that you will incur in investigating and researching export markets. The grant covers 50% of eligible costs (subject to a maximum of €2,500 per company in any one calendar year), available to any business with less than 10 employees. Priming and Expansion Priming – Up to 50% of the investment or €150,000, available to any business with less than 10 employees in the manufacturing sector or internationally traded services. Shopfront – To assist and support independent business owners to improve the appearance of their shop fronts/commercial properties. Grants are given for €5,000 or up to 75% of costs - open to all businesses. MFI –Works with small businesses with less than 10 employees and turnover of up to €2 million, by providing unsecured business loans from €2,000 to €25,000 for commercially viable proposals. Available to any business with less than 10 employees.
Business Advice Clinics If your constituents are interested in booking a Business Advice Clinic, please advise them to contact 045 980967, or [email protected]
______Peter Carey Chief Executive
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Chief Executive’s Report - November 2019 Page 50 of 50