Plans to redevelop Kilkenny's city centre quays area provide "exciting possibilities" for the city, according to the chairman of the Kilkenny association of An Taisce.
Dr Declan Murphy yesterday welcomed the decision by Kilkenny's county and borough councils to seek suggestions from the public about developing the eight-acre site, which takes in Bateman Quay and John's Quay, on opposite sides of the river Nore, and surrounding areas.
A consultation process is to take place until the end of next month. The councils will then present the findings at a public meeting before preparing a brief for architects.
This approach, said Dr Murphy, could be a model for public projects in the future. "Of course you won't get agreement on everything but if you keep coming back to the public and allowing them to make a contribution, you give people a sense of ownership and a feeling of involvement in the process."
An Taisce, he said, would be preparing a detailed submission on the project in the coming weeks. The scheme was an opportunity, he believed, "to open up the city to the river Nore", as too often Irish cities and towns "turned their backs" on the local river.
The development of a three-mile walk on the west bank of the river, from Ormond Mills upstream to Talbot's Inch, is one of the options which should be considered, he said.
Much of the quays site to be developed is currently used for car-parking. While retailers will want to see this retained, Dr Murphy said a more imaginative approach, such as the provision of better public transport, was required.
Potential developments envisaged by the two councils include an arts centre, recreation facilities, an expanded library, residential and shopping units and a "one-stop-shop" for public services.
Mr Tony Walsh, director of services with Kilkenny Co Council, said he hoped the public would embrace the project and put forward as many suggestions as possible for the site. "The quays area lies at the heart of Kilkenny and its significance cannot be overstated."
A "news and views" centre is being established on Bateman Quay for members of the public to make suggestions and receive information on the development proposals. It will be open on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings until March 1st. Information can also be obtained from the Kilkenny County Council website at www.kilkennycoco.ie