Newbridge Town Hall works delayed due to rain and winds

Refurbishment works on historic Newbridge Town Hall have been delayed due to bad weather, it has emerged.

Works costing around €500,000 on the former Methodist building, which is a protect structure, began last June.

The project had been due to be completed at the end of March but wet and windy conditions in recent months hampered progress.

However Kildare Co Council told KildareNow that Dublin firm Peak Construction is expected to leave the site on Main Street at the end of April.

Scaffolding as well as waterproof sheeting and dust netting have covered the site to protect the public.

A spokeswoman said: "Due to additional unforeseen works arising from the recent bad weather, the Contractor is now expected to complete the works programme for Newbridge Town Hall at the end of April."

A new group has been set up to decide how the building will be used through a process of public consultation.

The town hall is a former Methodist church built in 1859 on the grounds of the former cavalry barracks.

The barracks have now been substantially demolished and the church was deconsecrated after the closure of the barracks in the 1920s.

The building was subsequently used as a recreation hall, the Town hall, a community training workshop and the parking wardens office.

Some elements of the site were constructed in the mid to late 20th Century such as a shed and a wall and a porch and railings.

The Council believes the refurbishment of the building is an important step in reclaiming the town centre of Newbridge as a destination in itself and should lead to the upgrade of Georges Street and surrounding areas.

The local authority aims to protecting and further develop the role of the town centre as the focal point for economic, cultural and social activity.

Photo: Aishling Conway