A permanent sporting feature on the river Nore at Kilkenny City will go ahead provided it gets the support of the Office of Public Works (OPW).
A local group, headed by city councillor Mr Paul Cuddihy, wants a play-wave placed in the middle of the Nore as part of a €34 million flood-relief scheme for the city.
"The play-wave would provide a first-class sports facility for canoeists and boost tourism in the city during off-peak periods," according to Mr Cuddihy.
The relatively inexpensive piece of engineering provides a standing surfable wave in the middle of the river. "It would be similar to a sea wave but would be stationary," he said.
In canoeing competitions points are given for the most dynamic tricks on the play-wave.These events are held in Dublin, Cork, Mayo, Limerick and Offaly. "None of these venues has a permanent feature and this is what makes the Kilkenny proposal so unique," Mr Cuddihy claimed.
The idea has the blessing of the development officer with the Irish Canoe Union, Mr Conor Ryan.
"We are the governing body for the sport in Ireland and fully support this project as it has the potential to help Kilkenny become the premier canoeing location in Ireland. It would provide a further amenity which would have international, national as well as local use."