Plans have been revealed to build a new urban quarter in the heart of Kilkenny city.

The Abbey Quarter scheme will be developed on a 10-acre site that until 2013 housed Diageo's Smithwicks Brewery.

Features of the 'masterplan' include;

• 14 new blocks creating a new urban quarter to complement the existing city centre

• Capacity for almost 60,000m2 (645,000ft2) of mixed use residential, commercial, retail, education and civic space

• New public, landscaped spaces including a new 2.5 acre public plaza/urban park at St. Francis Abbey

• Refurbishment of the old Brewhouse to provide almost 4,450m2 (47,850ft2) of unique, grade A office space

• A new linear park running along the banks of the River Nore

• Conservation of historic buildings on the site including St. Francis Abbey

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Overall, a total of €17 million will be invested in the site in the next 18 – 24 months, coupled with over €11m invested in infrastructure to help unlock up to 3,000 new housing units along with parks and other local amenities.

In advance of launching the Abbey Quarter scheme, Business Minister Heather Humphreys said: "I am delighted to announce that €12.3m in development loan finance has been allocated through the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund to regenerate the old brewery site into top-class office accommodation.

"Without a doubt, this will be hugely attractive to indigenous and foreign investors alike. The city’s local economy has come on in leaps and bounds in recent times, and this initiative is an opportunity to build on all that has been achieved to the benefit of the entire region. I am confident that Kilkenny has the talented workforce, connectivity and cultural offering needed to attract new investments from near and far."

The Council's Chief Executive, Colette Byrne, added: "Abbey Quarter is a unique city centre site beside the River Nore, nestled between the imposing Kilkenny Castle and the 12th century St. Canices Cathedral. The redevelopment of the Brewhouse and Mayfair will be complemented by investment in high quality public realm by Kilkenny County Council. The new public spaces will become the backdrop to the many renowned Kilkenny Festivals."

(LM)