County Kildare Leads Sustainable Development with Planning Excellence and Community Growth

Leading the Way in Planning and Development

County Kildare, situated in the eastern and midland region of Ireland within Leinster province, stands as the seventh-largest county by population among Ireland’s 32 counties. The area is governed by the Kildare County Council, which has recently achieved significant recognition for its innovative approaches to development.

In a notable achievement, Kildare County Council has been shortlisted in four categories at the Irish Planning Institute’s Planning Awards 2025, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in planning and sustainable development. The winners will be announced at a prestigious ceremony at Clontarf Castle Hotel on September 25th, 2025.

Sustainable Innovation and Infrastructure

The Council is actively addressing climate change through three transformative planning-led projects: the Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) Guidance Document, Permeability Guidelines, and Allotments and Community Gardens Strategy. These initiatives have established the Planning Department as a leader in environmentally responsible placemaking in Ireland.

The Council has expanded its capabilities by incorporating 32 dedicated planners and new multi-disciplinary teams, including specialists in ecology, urban design, and biodiversity. This enhancement allows the Council to work closely with elected members, stakeholders, and the community, actively shaping a sustainable future for citizens, businesses, visitors, and communities through meaningful engagement and transparent planning.

Community Development and Housing

The region faces ongoing challenges, with over 1,700 children remaining on creche waiting lists, prompting calls for significant investment in early years workforce in the upcoming Budget 2026. In positive developments, €18 million has been approved for the development of student bed spaces at Maynooth University.

The county continues to expand its community services with a new Family Resource Centre being established in Leixlip at the Leixlip Youth and Community Centre. Additionally, a new Government Data Centre has been delivered in Backweston, Celbridge, marking another step in the region’s technological infrastructure development.