Fine Gael has welcomed the purchase of the Dominican Church and grounds in Athy, Co Kildare.

Kildare County Council and the Department of Environment bought the property and intend to convert the church into a library.

Sheltered housing is also expected to be developed on the site.

Martin Heydon, Fine Gael TD for Kildare South, said: "The site is now going to accommodate sheltered housing for those needing independent living as well as an amenity park, and the Dominican church will be converted into a library as well as maximising the space for performance of the arts. Up to €8 million will be invested in developing the site over the next decade. Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly has also said that the site presents opportunities for the expansion of the Heritage Centre and Museum in Emily Square in Athy.

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"The design of the church leaves it well placed to be an excellent venue for concerts and shows, as proven by a number of recent shows including Shackleton's Endurance last weekend, the recent Lions Concert with the Garda Band and the upcoming Jack L concert in November."

(CD/LM)