In February 2008 serious flooding on the river Nore resulted in the collapse of a section of Thomastown weir. This breach has had a devastating effect on a range of river-based activities in Thomastown and on the community itself.

The loss of the towns only safe swimming area.
Thomastown Paddlers now have no training pond.
Kilkenny Water Safety have no safe venue for water safety classes.


The weir was, and is, a vital part of local and national industrial heritage it must be protected from further deterioration. The weir is designated as a listed structure and must receive the full support of that designation. Supporting the mobility of migrating species and the protection and encouragement of biodiversity have to be very high on our agenda. THOMASTOWN COMMUNITY RIVER TRUST are a group of individuals who have come together in an attempt to reverse the decay of the weir. We are representative of many community groups within the town who share a respect for the river and a need to find an amicable solution to the current situation. We believe that any creative solution to the weir will have to respect the needs of the species that inhabit the river. We also believe that the needs of those who engage with the river, e.g. swimmers, canoeists, fishermen etc, can and will also have to be met.

Any design solution should insure:

- That the needs of all aquatic species be catered for. 
- That a head of water be returned to allow the swimming water safety and canoeing amenity be fully viable. 
- That the unique characteristics of the weirs’ design be respected, that the sluice gates be refitted and that the site maintained into the future.

If you are interested in supporting the cause of Thomastown Community River Trust and its weir campaign - MIND THE GAP - log on to our forum and register your support. If you want to become more involved please ring one of the telephone numbers and get stuck in. We are supported by the following community groups. 

THOMASTOWN ANGLERS ASSOCIATION 
THOMASTOWN PADDLERS 
THOMASTOWN COMMUNITY COUNCIL 
THOMASTOWN SCOUTING GROUP 
THOMASTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL
GRENNAN COLLEGE THOMASTOWN
THOMASTOWN GAA
THOMASTOWN SOCCER CLUB
KILKENNY WATER SAFETY ASSOCIATION

© 2009