Feature: The Changing Face Of Kildare - Growth, Gaps, Threats And Game-Changing Opportunities

This rapid growth has reshaped the county’s urban landscape, bringing both opportunities and challenges.

A detailed report from the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University has shone a light on the challenges, threats and opportunities facing Kildare.

Kfm has examined the main findings, highlighting a number of trends across the county.

Kildare's Population Boom: A County Transformed

County Kildare is experiencing an unprecedented population surge, with its numbers now reaching 247,774 - more than double the 122,000 recorded in 1991.

This rapid growth has reshaped the county’s urban landscape, bringing both opportunities and challenges.

Urban Expansion and Population Breakdown

Seven towns now boast populations exceeding 10,000, led by Naas (26,180), Newbridge (24,366), and Celbridge (20,601).

The student town of Maynooth follows with 17,259 residents, while Leixlip (16,733), Athy (11,035), and Kildare Town (10,302) complete the list. Additionally, four towns - Kilcock (8,674), Clane (8,152), Sallins (6,269), and Monasterevin (5,307) - fall into the 5,000–10,000 bracket, further solidifying Kildare’s urban expansion.

Breaking down the population by municipal district, Kildare-Newbridge MD is the most populous, home to 68,185 people, followed closely by Clane-Maynooth MD (66,159). Naas MD (45,822), Celbridge-Leixlip MD (39,344), and Athy MD (28,646) complete the picture.

Challenges Facing a Growing County

This growth brings significant challenges.

Housing demand has skyrocketed, infrastructure is under strain, and public transport gaps are widening.

A growing reliance on car-dependent commuting is evident, particularly in areas lacking viable alternatives.

The housing crisis, marked by rising real estate prices and increasing dependence on rental assistance, underscores the struggle to accommodate Kildare’s expanding population.

Additionally, demographic shifts are creating pressures on local services, from education and healthcare to social welfare.

There is also an over-reliance on volunteers for community services, which may become unsustainable.

Economic disparities between different regions, particularly in the southwest of the county, highlight spatial imbalances in development and employment opportunities.

Opportunities for Growth and Development

Despite these challenges, Kildare’s population boom presents major opportunities. The county benefits from a young, educated workforce, which can drive business expansion and economic diversification. Maynooth University’s continued growth further strengthens Kildare’s position as an educational hub, fostering innovation and research.

Investment in transport infrastructure, including rail connectivity and improved public transit options, could alleviate commuting pressures and support sustainable growth.

Renewable energy projects, such as solar farms, also present significant potential for economic development and job creation.

That’s despite a number of objections as previously highlighted by Kfm.

According to the report, Kildare’s strong industrial base in agriculture, manufacturing, and construction can be leveraged for long-term economic stability.

Threats to Sustainable Development

Despite its opportunities, Kildare faces substantial threats.

The perception of the county as uniformly affluent may hinder investment in critical public services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare. Additionally, low service provision could make it difficult to attract and retain skilled workers.

The report notes how rural areas risk being overlooked in favour of urban-driven development, leading to service gaps and economic exclusion. Limited north-south and east-west transport connectivity, especially for public transport, remains a pressing concern.