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06 Sept 2025

Calls made for major new public building to be built in Kilkenny

New county heritage strategy unveiled at latest meeting of Castlecomer Municipal District

Kilkenny has a ‘proud history’: calls made for Kilkenny Heritage Museum

Grangefertagh Round Tower in Johnstown

A Kilkenny Heritage Museum was among the topics discussed at the latest meeting of Castlecomer Municipal District, where Kilkenny Heritage Officer Regina Fitzpatrick outlined a new county heritage strategy for County Kilkenny.

The strategy is set to be implemented over the course of five years, from 2026 to 2030.

Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick called for the establishment of a dedicated Heritage Museum in Kilkenny, saying the county’s rich cultural history deserves a home of its own.

READ ALSO: Tourist pens love letter to the 'magical' city and people of Kilkenny

“Our heritage is a vital part of who we are,” said Cllr Fitzpatrick. “Kilkenny has a deep and proud history that deserves to be celebrated here at home. A local museum would not only preserve our unique past but would also boost tourism, education, and community pride.”

The restoration efforts of Clomantagh Church and Grangefertagh Round Tower received high praise at the meeting, with Cllr Mary Hilda Kavanagh emphasising that any work carried out on the restoration of old graveyards be done on the judgment of the Heritage Office.

Cllr Kavanagh made mention of some instances where headstones unfortunately misplaced during restoration efforts. “It’s been more destructive than constructive,” she said.

Cllr John Brennan thanked Ms Fitzpatrick and the council for their work in providing the funding to maintain the thatched houses in his local parish of Clogh.

Cllr Brennan also remarked upon the special history of Clogh graveyard, which is the burial site of Michael Fenlon, who constructed the first Boulton and Watt steam engine in Ireland.

Cllr Mick McCarthy complimented the work of Freshford heritage group, Ionad Lachtain, in their efforts to promote different heritage events in the area.

“We are very lucky to have them,” said Cllr McCarthy, who went on to commend the efforts and publications of the Heritage Office, thanking Ms Fitzpatrick for her presentation, and wishing her success.

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