Kilmac.ie

Easter Sunday Charity Cycle Through Kilmacthomas

The 10th annual mental health and suicide awareness charity cycle will take place this Easter Sunday, passing through the picturesque village of Kilmacthomas. The event, which has been running for a decade, aims to promote positive mental health and reduce stigma.

Registration will open from 8am at Leamybrien, with cyclists departing at 9am. Participants can choose between 30km or 50km routes that will take in Kilmacthomas, Kilmeaden, Kill, Bunmahon, and Durrow.

Cllr Liam Brazil, one of the founders of the initiative, emphasized the importance of the event: "If we can get people on their bikes, out in the beautiful countryside and talking about their mental health, that goes a very long way to alleviating the pain and pressures that they may be feeling."

Apartments and Community Centre Planned for Kilmacthomas

Two separate developments have been proposed for the Kilmacthomas area, including an apartment complex and a new sports hub. The plans, which are currently under consideration by Waterford City and County Council, aim to address housing needs and enhance community facilities in the village.

The apartment development has raised some concerns among local residents, with a decision due soon on the proposed conversion of a retail unit into apartments on Main Street. Community representatives have expressed the need for balanced development that preserves the character of the village while meeting housing demands.

Historic Railway Station to Become Tourist Accommodation

Kilmacthomas's former railway station, which has been closed since 1982 after 104 years of service, is set to be transformed into tourist accommodation. In a scheme developed by Waterford City and County Council in conjunction with the Kilmacthomas Social Enterprise group, the main building will be converted into two accommodation units with capacity for four people.

The project will also include two traditional style work huts and a purpose-built unit to house a large model railway constructed over 30 years by Lar Barton, a former council caretaker who passed away in 2022. The model, measuring approximately 10m by 4m, "explains the history of the line and includes local features like towns, villages, tunnels, bridges and station houses," according to Labour Councillor Ger Barron.

The development is expected to enhance the appeal of the nearby Waterford Greenway while also serving as a standalone attraction. The project is estimated to cost around €500,000 and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The Kilmacthomas Comeback Continues

Kilmacthomas continues to experience a revival, with both public and private development contributing to the village's growth. The Council recently completed a €3.4 million 16-unit social housing scheme below the local GAA field, but further private development shows just how much the village has transformed in recent years.

The Waterford Greenway has been a significant catalyst for this revival, bringing increased tourism and business opportunities to the area. Local businesses have reported substantial growth, with cafes, accommodation providers, and retail outlets all benefiting from the increased footfall.

Community leaders have expressed satisfaction with the balanced approach to development, which has preserved the village's character while enhancing its amenities and services.

New Social Housing Development Completed in Kilmacthomas

A new social housing development in Kilmacthomas has been completed, with residents expected to move into the units in the coming weeks. The development, named Port na Machan, was funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and consists of 16 new social housing units.

Anton Lennon, Executive Engineer with Waterford City and County Council, said: "Just some finishing touches have to be applied to the homes and we're looking forward to handing the keys to the new occupants in the coming weeks. The houses are set in the beautiful village of Kilmacthomas and we're confident that the new occupiers will be very happy here."

John Somers Construction was the main contractor for the project, with the design team led by CJ Falconer & Associates. The development represents a significant investment in social housing for the area and addresses some of the housing needs in the community.

Kilmacthomas Housing Project Progressing Well

The new social housing development in Kilmacthomas is progressing well, with works expected to be completed early next year. The project, which will provide 16 much-needed social housing units, is part of Waterford City and County Council's commitment to addressing housing needs across the county.

The development site, located below the local GAA field, has been a hive of activity in recent months as construction progresses on schedule. Local representatives have welcomed the project, noting that it will provide quality housing for families in a prime location within the village.

Greenway Extension Study: Step Towards Munster Vales Greenway

A study on extending the Waterford Greenway has been announced, marking a step towards the creation of a "Munster Vales Greenway" that would connect multiple greenways across the counties of Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford.

The proposed extension would build on the success of the Waterford Greenway, which has been a significant tourism driver for Kilmacthomas and other communities along its route. Local businesses in Kilmacthomas have reported substantial benefits from the existing greenway, with the village becoming a popular stopping point for cyclists and walkers.

Community representatives have expressed strong support for the extension plans, noting that they would further enhance tourism opportunities and economic development in the region.

Kilmacthomas Workhouse Redevelopment Continues to Thrive

The redevelopment of the historic Kilmacthomas Workhouse continues to thrive, with new businesses establishing themselves in the renovated complex despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The workhouse, which dates back to the 1850s, has been transformed into a vibrant hub for local businesses and tourism services.

The Coach House Coffee shop, one of the anchor tenants, has reported strong support from local customers during the pandemic restrictions, while also preparing for an anticipated return of Greenway tourists as restrictions ease. Other businesses in the complex have adapted their operations to meet the changing circumstances, with some focusing on online sales and local delivery services.

The workhouse redevelopment has been cited as a prime example of how historic buildings can be repurposed for modern use while preserving their heritage value. Community leaders have praised the project for its contribution to local employment and tourism development.