Calls for rejuvenation of Kerry town’s historic lanes to help boost tourism
The KerrymanA Kerry councillor has called for restoration of historic lanes in the region’s tourism capital as the town looks to boost local and international appeal.
Councillor John O’Donoghue advocated for Killarney’s old lanes to become a “tourist attraction in their own right”, suggesting they had become a “little tired looking”.
The centre of Killarney dates back to the 18th century, with the network of laneways branching off New Street and High Street developed in the later half of the century.
The lanes were originally home to much of the town’s residents, including highly skilled craftsmen and merchants.
“The laneways of Killarney are of enormous historical and cultural significance,” said Cllr O’Donoghue at a council meeting last week, “as they are the ‘Old Killarney’ where residents of the town lived in large numbers, and indeed where many of our ancestors came from.”
“They are part of the fabric of our town and tell their own story of how the town grew, and thankfully prospered to become the fine place it is today.”
“They are still largely inhabited and one thing I am always proud of as a Killarney person is that they are largely safe to walk and a help to locals navigating the town during the busy tourist season. “
Just off Main Street is Bohereen na Caol, ‘The Narrow Lane’, which was home to many thatched cottages and a cooperage. ‘Chapel Lane’ originally hosted a Roman Catholic Chapel built in 1770, while ‘Bridewell Lane’ suggests the old constabulary possessed a bridewell jail (a small lock-up for those who had committed minor offences) on New Street.
Other lanes such as Pig’s Lane have been built over, while the brewery for the eponymous ‘Brewery Lane’ has long disappeared.
“While still in a reasonable condition, they have become a little tired looking,” said Cllr O’Donoghue.
“I feel that were there a multi annual restoration programme to be instated for our laneways, they could be completely revitalised and a fine addition to what our town has to offer.”
“Many contain restaurants and little cafes, and with a little love could become a tourist attraction in their own right. When abroad it is often a joy to explore the little side streets and laneways of cities in other countries and I would like Killarney’s laneways to join those ranks.”
“I have no doubt that were they provided the resources to do so, our fantastic outdoor staff would do a tremendous job restoring our laneways, something which might also help with our Tidy Towns efforts, and I hope that the Council will agree to my request.”
Kerry County Council said it would soon be focusing on identifying priority laneways for rejuvenation and exploring additional funding streams for their revamp.
Building on the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE), which recognises the historical and cultural importance of the town’s laneways, the council said it would ensure that “these unique spaces contribute to a more vibrant, accessible, and attractive town centre.”#