The Carnegie Library refurbishment project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27. 

The Carnegie Library refurbishment and surrounding public realm enhancement project was identified as a priority in the John’s Quay/John St Urban Design Strategy. 

The main objective is to refurbish the Carnegie Library to provide for a Local Studies and cultural hub and also bring about a re-design of the surrounding public realm area. 

A modest extension to the rear of the building will be undertaken as well as a re-design of the internal layout to improve the space.  The regeneration will also see a refurbishment of the building to improve energy efficiency and accessibility.  The public realm area will be enhanced, incorporating biodiversity and nature-based measures to enrich the overall appearance.   

John’s Quay/John Street Urban Design Strategy 2024

Kilkenny County Council were first awarded funding of €200,000 under the THRIVE scheme to create an Urban Design Strategy for the John’s Quay/John Street area in Kilkenny City.

The Council appointed consultants to assist in the process and engaged with key stakeholders at a number of public consultation meetings.  The Urban Design Strategy was completed in November, 2024.  From this strategy, a project to develop the Carnegie Library at John's Quay was developed.  The Part 8 Planning Application for the Kilkenny Local Studies Hub and Public Realm Enhancements at John’s Quay, Kilkenny was approved in March 2025.  

All documentation is available via the following link: Consult Part 8 Planning Application at Carnegie Library

John's Quay John Street Urban Design Strategy.pdf