How an 800 year old castle could become a tourist attraction
'It could be another Kilkenny Castle'
An ancient Naas building, which is several centuries old, could be transformed into an attraction like Kilkenny Castle.
Naas politician Anne Breen says that St David’s Castle, located in the town centre and in private ownership, must be preserved.
The Labour Party councillor said the castle could be developed “along with its accompanying grounds into a significant multipurpose facility for the benefit of the town and its residents.”
Cllr Breen acknowledged that some restoration work has taken place and added the castle “has to be retained and maintained as a protected structure as it is very much a part of thew town’s medieval history and heritage.”
She told a Naas Municipal District meeting that the site “could be a mini Kilkenny Castle-like development with accompanying gardens and grounds providing special facilities for the people of the town and visitors.”
She said the site lies within the original medieval quarter of Naas dating from “its very inception and should be treated accordingly.”
Without proper and planned development its future could be seriously jeopardised, she added.
Historians say the castle is very much part of the town's history dating back to the original building in the time of King John of England when two parliaments were held there.
It was a central feature during the 13th and 14th centuries as a Norman stronghold.