We are delighted that the transformation of Naas Library in Naas town centre has reached practical completion, giving this historic building a new lease of life for the modern era. The project involved the conversion of the existing Town Hall building into a modern, state-of the-art library, whilst complimentary exhibition space, ICT facilities, study and research areas, and other community functions are also accommodated.
The Town Hall is a dramatic and imposing large-scale building that has a prominent impact, fronting onto Main Street North in Naas. Situated on the former site of a Norman Castle and originally built as a jail in 1796, it is a Protected Structure listed in the Kildare County Development Plan and is rated as of National Importance in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage. The three-storey building was remodelled in 1904 and was used throughout the 20th century as a Town Hall, with the ground floor converted to use as a Carnegie Free Library.
Working alongside Deaton Lysaght Architects, Kildare County Council, Tom McNamara & Partners Quantity Surveyors and main contractor Duggan Lynch, our team delivered multidisciplinary support for the scheme. This saw us provide civil, structural, mechanical and electrical engineering services which all contributed to a successful project completion.
Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Kildare County Council welcomed the new library and cultural centre as an amenity that will cater for Naas’ growing population. In a recent statement, she said: “We’re delighted to open the doors of the Naas Library and Cultural Centre. This conservation project provides a new use for this iconic building at the heart of Naas while preserving its important history and heritage.”
An official opening by Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien is expected to take place later this year.
