Tesco’s Kilkenny Supermarket Plans Delayed Until 2026

Plans for a new Tesco supermarket alongside residential housing in Kilkenny will not see a final decision until January 2026. The development aims to transform a 3.91-hectare site, formerly a mart, located at the intersection of New Road, Castlecomer Road, and Old Mart Street.

In July, Kilkenny County Council approved conditional planning permission for a mixed-use development, which was subsequently appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála, Ireland’s planning appeals board. This appeal has led to the postponement of the final decision, which was initially expected this month.

Details of the Proposed Development

The project includes not only the Tesco retail outlet but also 80 residential units and an assisted care unit. These units will be spread across eight blocks, with a total gross floor area of approximately 7,489 square metres. The development is designed to provide a range of amenities, including a café, car parking spaces, landscaping, and recreational areas.

The residential portion will offer 90 car parking spaces for residents, as well as public open spaces, communal areas, and private balconies for individual units. To enhance accessibility, there will be a new vehicular and pedestrian entrance from New Road and a bus stop on Castlecomer Road. Pedestrian and cycle access routes, along with a pedestrian plaza, are also planned.

Community Concerns and Next Steps

During the planning process, several third-party submissions raised concerns about different aspects of the proposed development. Despite these objections, Kilkenny County Council granted permission, which led to the appeal that has delayed the decision.

An Coimisiún Pleanála is now expected to announce its final ruling in late January 2026. The outcome will be closely watched by local residents and stakeholders, as the development promises to significantly impact the community and the local economy.

As the situation develops, further updates will be provided, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between developers and the community.