Locals asked to have say on plans for new public library and garden in Wicklow

By Hugh O'Farrell Walsh, The Wicklow People

Residents of Aughrim are being invited to have their say on plans for a new public library and community garden that could transform a prominent site on Main Street into a modern civic and learning hub for the village.

The proposed development would see the construction of a new library on a site extending to approximately 753 square metres close to Aughrim National School, the Church of the Most Sacred Heart and the historic entrance to Aughrim Mill.

The project combines a contemporary library building with a biodiverse sensory garden designed around native Irish planting and a public outdoor space.

According to the project design statement, the new facility is intended to replace the town’s existing library, which occupies just 40 square metres and has served the area since 1986. The current service has approximately 400 members and records around 5,000 annual loans.

Mark Costello (climate change coordinator Wicklow County Council), Cllr Pat Fitzgerald, Ben Mullen (architect), Theresa O’Brien (director of services Wicklow County Council), Cllr Pat Kennedy, Margaret Birchall (county librarian) and Kevin Mann (PK Macann Construction Ltd) pictured at the site of the new library in Aughrim in April 2026. © Michael Kelly

The council believes a larger and purpose-built facility could significantly increase usage and expand the role of the library within the community.

The proposed building will contain a reception area, adult and children’s libraries, dedicated teenage and study spaces, an IT area, a sensory room, public meeting facilities and staff accommodation.

A fully accessible changing places toilet and lift access to upper floor spaces are also included as part of the design.

Architects behind the scheme say the design takes inspiration from Aughrim’s heritage as an historic estate town known for its granite buildings.

Particular attention has been paid to the relationship between the proposed library and nearby Aughrim Mill, which is listed on the Record of Protected Structures.

The project includes conservation-led repairs to existing masonry features and seeks to integrate the new building into the established streetscape while providing a contemporary public space for residents.

A major feature of the development is the proposed sensory garden, which planners describe as both a recreational and educational space. The garden has been designed around native Wicklow species and aims to support biodiversity while creating a calm environment for library users.

The development has also been designed with sustainability in mind. Plans indicate the building will achieve nearly zero energy building standards through the use of rooftop solar panels, battery storage and an air to water heat pump.

Parking provision forms part of the proposal, with five parking spaces planned, including a wheelchair accessible space and two electric vehicle charging points. Bicycle parking will also be provided, together with pedestrian access from both Main Street and Mill Lane.

Environmental assessments prepared for the project found that the proposed development is not likely to have a significant effect on any European wildlife sites.

An appropriate assessment screening report concluded that no Natura 2000 sites would be impacted by the development because of its limited scale, urban location and distance from protected habitats.

The council has also determined, following a preliminary environmental examination, that there is no real likelihood of significant environmental effects arising from the project and that an environmental impact assessment is not required.

The library vision outlines a flexible building capable of supporting reading, lifelong learning, school engagement, digital services, cultural events and community activities.

Submissions on the project will be accepted until November 5.