In April 1999 Kilmanagh-Ballycallan-Killaloe Community Enterprise Group (KBK) received Technical Assistance to commission a specialised recreational plan for Ballykeeffe Quarry, a disused industrial site. The application arose from an 'area appraisal' carried out by BNS with the local community. As a result of the grant-aid KBK developed a proposal to construct an open-air performance and amenity space. The central feature of the project was the construction of an amphitheater. This would facilitate a wide range of musical/theatrical events and other leisure uses -rock-climbing, archery. This project would give the group a high-profile attraction in the area which in turn would provide additional income to local businesses and provide an innovative resource for the residents.


In May 1999, KBK again approached BNS with an application for grant-aid under Rural Tourism. There was still a number of factors hampering the project, including the continued use of the quarry as a dump, responsibility for the cliff-face of the quarry and the issue of insurance liability. As a result of BNS assistance, control of the crucial parts of the quarry was transferred to KBK; through BNS's research, insurance cover was arranged and work began on developing the amenity space. In July 2000 Ballykeeffe Quarry opened for its first function and in August it was one of the official venues for the Kilkenny Arts Festival. Such a project was only realised through effective Technical Assistance and expertise.