Well-known Kildare site identified for new Monasterevin fire station

A well-known County Kildare site has been identified for a new fire station for Monasterevin.

Explaining the situation, Social Democrats councillor Pat Balfe said that Kildare County Council (KCC) has now reached an agreement in principle on one area located within the grounds of Moore Abbey.

According to Cllr Balfe, the move marks "an important breakthrough for this vital project".

He elaborated: "While the move remains subject to the formal acquisition of the lands, it represents real momentum after the disappointment earlier this year when the proposed sale of the Dublin Road site fell through.

"Securing a modern, fit-for-purpose Fire Station for Monasterevin has always been about protecting our growing community and supporting the incredible work of our Fire Service.

"I will continue to work closely with Council officials to ensure the project progresses as quickly as possible."

He concluded by calling the development "positive news" and "a big step forward for Monasterevin".

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SEPARATE SUGGESTION

Another political representative who gave their view on what should be done with the grounds of Moore Abbey was Fianna Fáil Senator for Kildare South, Fiona O’Loughlin.

She explained that she wants KCC to bring Moore Abbey in Monasterevin back into public use by engaging directly with the owners of the site (The current owners are the Muiríosa Foundation, which is a voluntary health organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with Autism, in addition to people with intellectual disabilities).

Specifically, Senator O'Loughlin said that an agreement should be sought between KCC and the foundation to allow elements of the grounds to be brought back into public use so they can be enjoyed by local people, while ensuring the foundation’s important work can continue.

Speaking on her call Senator O’Loughlin said: "We have a fabulous site and grounds that could be shared with the public; there are hundreds of acres of land and woodland that could be turned into public parks, with a swimming pool on site that could also be opened up for public use.”

The Newbridge-based Senator further said that believes that there is sufficient space on the grounds for the foundation to continue its essential work, while also allowing parts of the site to be opened up for public use.

"It is the perfect site for walking dogs or for children to play, and it would be a perfect opportunity to expand recreational facilities in the area," she added. "Historic sites like these should be available for public use, and ensuring they are accessible will help guarantee they are maintained and looked after into the future for generations of people in the area to enjoy."

Social Democrats Cllr Pat Balfe and Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin

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