Emily Square in Athy, Co. Kildare, reopens after a €2.7m redevelopment funded by the EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland.
The project includes enhanced footpaths, upgraded street furniture, better pedestrian access, and restored heritage features like the Maurice Duke of Leinster Drinking Fountain and 1798 Rebellion Memorial.
New additions include a town tree, two public art murals, and an illuminated ground installation of the Barrow Line.
The square serves as a tourism hub, connecting to the Shackleton Experience and Barrow Blueway, boosting Athy’s appeal.
The redevelopment is part of Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme to support sustainable tourism in the Midlands.
Martin Heydon shared: “As a proud Kildare South representative, it’s fantastic to see the transformation of Emily Square come to life. This project is a perfect example of how targeted investment in public spaces can revitalise our towns, support local businesses, and create new opportunities for tourism and community engagement.”
Carmel Kelly shared: “The redevelopment of Emily Square under the EU Just Transition Fund is a significant project for County Kildare, and one which will support local businesses, as well as our broader tourism potential.”
Darragh O’Brien shared: “The revitalisation of Emily Square represents a key goal of the Just Transition in Ireland – enhancing local communities and fostering a sense of place, making the Midlands an even more desirable location to live, work and visit.”
Orla Carroll shared: “Emily Square is one of the first major projects to be completed under our Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme and clearly demonstrates the transformative impact that initiatives like the EU Just Transition Fund can have on destinations across the Midlands.”
Sonya Kavanagh shared: “Kildare County Council and our partners are committed to the regeneration of our county.”
Clare Bannon shared: “EMRA is delighted to see the opening of Emily Square and applauds the efforts of Kildare County Council and Fáilte Ireland in bringing this project to life with the support of the EU Just Transition Fund Programme.”
Ivan Keatley shared: “The opening of Emily Square after undergoing such significant transformation is a really exciting and important moment for Athy.”
