Kilkenny Sports Arena earmarked for refugees
Plans to convert an indoor sports centre in Kilkenny into accommodation for up to 291 Ukrainian refugees are being considered by Government officials.
An application has been made in relation to Kilkenny Sports Arena in Wallslough village, four kilometres outside Kilkenny City. The village which consists of a number of holiday homes and the arena is currently housing approximately 60 Ukrainian refugees for the past 18 months.
A spokesperson for Kilkenny County Council confirmed that the local authority is aware that this property is under consideration by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under the Emergency Ukrainian Refurbishment Programme.
“The property is being considered for short term accommodation for those fleeing the war in Ukraine, subject to all regulatory matters relating to its delivery being satisfied.
“There are significant compliance considerations to be addressed in relation to planning, building control and environment for which Kilkenny County Council have a regulatory role. We are also aware that the owners are liasing with Uisce Eireann in relation to matters under their remit,” the spokesperson added.
In a statement the management of Wallslough village said that they have engaged with the Department ‘to house Ukrainian refugees seeking sanctuary from war in their country’.
“This engagement has been successful, and a letter of intent has now been issued. The construction plans have been drawn up and submitted to the Chief Executive Fire Officer and a fire certificate has now been issued,” said the spokesperson.
“The facility will be fully insulated, and an extensive heating and ventilation system installed. It will have the capacity to accommodate 291 persons for a contractual period of 24 months,” the spokesperson said.
Construction plans include 40 apartments with extra dining, living and social community areas throughout the centre as well as a healthcare centre, an education centre, a children’s play area and an indoor fitness area.
Buses will also be provided to provide access to Kilkenny City and at least ten staff will be employed to cater for the needs of residents. If the project gets the go ahead it is expected to take three to four months to complete.
The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth received an offer of accommodation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) at Wallslough Village, Wallslough, Co. Kilkenny R95 T9FE. The property has been offered to provide accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine.
A department spokesperson said that the property is currently being assessed as part of the Emergency Refurbishment (Ukraine) Project overseen by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
"The property has been offered to provide accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine.
"This assessment will ascertain whether the property is suitable for future use following conversion/refurbishment works, which have not been undertaken to date. There are no Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) on site."