Horse racing museum for Kildare town suggested by Councillor

A councillor has said that it would be a 'missed opportunity' not to have a horse racing museum in Kildare town.

The comments were made by Fine Gael Cllr Paddy Curran at the latest Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, which was held on Wednesday, December 13 last.

He asked Kildare County Council (KCC) 'to furnish an update on the proposed feasibility study for the future of the Kildare Courthouse.'

In its report at the meeting, KCC replied to his question with the following answer: "The consultancy firm 'Venture', which was procured by KCC, has submitted a draft study.

"With respect to the economic feasibility and an indicative design of repurposing the Old Courthouse in Kildare town for the purposes of a Kildare Craft, Creativity and Design Hub.

"This space would include makers space, workshops, retail outlet, gallery, and outdoor theatre / market space."

Fine Gael Cllr Paddy Curran.

KCC continued: "We are currently reviewing the study; however, it is important to note that we have not as yet identified a funding source for the project.

“Any future grant application will heavily depend on proof of concept, to this end, Venture is reviewing the success factors and learnings of KCC/ Local Enterprise Office’s experience of delivering the temporary craft retail unit (GATHER) in Kildare Village which is hosting a collective of 24 makers / designers, the unit is operating until the end of Christmas.

"To further validate the project opportunities or highlight challenges, we have secured a three-year lease on Southwells in Kildare town.

"From January this will open and house, showcase and retail the products produced by the makers and designers of our county," KCC concluded.

Cllr Curran said that while he welcomed the report, he said that he was surprised that there was no mention of a racing museum within it.

He said: "I feel like it’s a missed opportunity to not embrace the opening of a racing museum (in Kildare town)."

Speaking further about the matter after the meeting, Cllr Curran told the Leinster Leader: "I was very pleased with the report from council and I welcome the findings, but feel we could explore a bit more the concept of a museum and a central data location for stable staff achievements.

"We should not miss any opportunity to increase the footfall into Kildare town and I believe this should be explored in detail."

"I am also aware of the financial cost to this but feel it would be an exercise well worth carrying out," Cllr Curran added.