Kilmainham Gaol transformed by new civic space

THE Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Críona Ní Dhálaigh unveiled a plaque to commemorate the newly designed Kilmainham Civic Space last week.

Séan Canney, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works, and local TD Catherine Byrne also attended the event that marked the improvement works at Kilmainham that were carried out as part of Dublin City Council’s 1916 commemorative programme.

The new Kilmainham Civic Space has been designed to transform and enhance the redevel-opment work carried out by the Office of Public Works at Kilmainham Gaol and Courthouse.

Cllr Ní Dhálaigh commended Dublin City Council and the Office of Public Works for the quality of their work.

“It is an excellent example of what can be achieved for the benefit of all when these two significant public bodies work closely together,” she said. “This site is of enormous historical significance and I hope that all who visit, work or live in Kilmainham benefit from this transformation.”

Minister of State Seán Canney added: “The work carried out has added considerably to the Kilmainham Gaol Museum attraction.

“Visitors to the gaol will greatly enjoy the new approach to the new visitor centre in the former Courthouse and the quality of the development provides a wonderful entrance to the site.

“I would like to join with the Lord Mayor in congratulating the officials of Dublin City Council who carried out the work.”

The Kilmainham Civic Space has been transformed with the installation of Leinster granite paving, enhanced public lighting, granite bollards and Irish limestone benches to provide seating for tourists and locals alike. The recent introduction of a Dublin Bikes station, as part of the Civic Space, has also enhanced the popular area.

The aim of the redesign was to create a successful vibrant space with a more efficient transport network that encourages greater levels of walking and cycling, enhances visitor experience and quality of life for the local community.