Hopes that Kildare will soon develop their own 'miniature Kilkenny Castle'

The historic St David’s Castle in Naas was recently bought by Kildare County Council, and the county is keen to make the most of its potential.

According to historians, 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. 

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It was a central feature during the 13th and 14th centuries as a Norman stronghold.

Larry and Anne Breen (Naas historian and county councillor respectively) issued a joint statement following the confirmation of the building's purchase, describing it as 'welcome news to everyone'.

“Without exaggeration it could be a miniature Kilkenny Castle, albeit on a smaller scale," they stated.

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Kildare County Council declined to indicate the future use of the castle.

However, it’s thought unlikely that the castle will be used for housing and could instead be redeveloped as offices to be used by private interests or, perhaps, KCC itself or a public body associated with heritage protection.

There are longer term suggestions that some of the land between the castle and Corban’s Lane would be developed for housing.

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The castle has been extensively renovated since it was acquired about five years ago and some of the work was funded through conservation grants made available by the state.

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