2020 Vision for Athy - Entire Document - Kildare.ie

Open Space, Passive and Active Recreation
The protection of existing and provision of new open space in the
town is viewed as critical in providing an improved quality of life
for its residents The provision of a new public park and playing
fields to the north of the Shaw’s Square area with the enhancement
of the existing Peoples Park will provide valuable amenity assets
for the residents of the town. Provision of sufficient public space
will also form an integral part of the town’s existing and future
residential developments. Depending on densities a variety of
garden sizes and other private and semi-private open spaces will
be provided for.
As outlined above the Shaw’s Square area offers significant
potential to develop the water sports potential of the town with the
option to re-locate the swimming pool to this site. The new public park will see the development of a number of
playing fields. The provision of these facilities in a central location in the town will assist in the promotion of
active leisure facilities accessible by slow modes. In particular to provision of playing fields should be a short term
priority to support local sporting clubs.
In line with promoting tourist and leisure pursuits a number of pedestrian
and cycle routes have been identified along river and canal. The intensive
mix of uses and the high accessibility of the town centre will maximise the
vibrancy and increase the attractiveness of the town for visitors and
residents alike. With the increased focus on the town’s waterways
opportunities will exist within the town to provide route initiatives such as
‘Sli na Slainte’. Such
initiatives are recognised as
having significant health
benefits and further attract
people to the town. In
developing such an
initiative in Athy the town would be able to build on its natural
assets of river and canal whilst providing other links to locations
such as sports fields and community facilities.
This section has shown that the Preferred Scenario strives to
maximise the tourism potential of Athy’s architectural and natural
heritage. This potential can be further developed in conjunction
with Bord Failte and other relevant bodies. A much enhanced
network of walking features, including amenity walks along the waterways, heritage trails in and around the town
centre etc. can be marketed widely and will attract visitors and encourage them to stay longer.
As integral part of promoting Athy, its heritage and waterways, the development of a Marina is essential and the
location south of Emily Square is considered appropriate. Waterfront apartment developments would complement
the Marina as well as a much needed hotel and conference centre. There are alternative locations for a Marina
further north of the town centre and also along the canal. The Study team recognises that Athy offers significant
potential to develop a facility of national importance in the town akin to the National Stud in Kildare such as an
Inland Waterway Museum. Such development would identify the town at national level and further develop the
town’s economy.
Athy IFPLUT Study 105 Final Report December 2004