€100,000 of Government funding has been announced by Minister Heather Humphreys for Town Centre First projects here in Laois.
Two towns in the county have been awarded funding, with Mountrath and Rathdowney both receiving €50,000 to rejuvenate each town.
The Mountrath project will focus on the Town Square, aiming to improve pedestrian facilities and incorporate a dedicated space for community facilities.
The Rathdowney project is also focusing on re-imagining their Town Square, with their aim to create a multifunctional area for markets and events.
This funding will support pre-development works for both projects, as well as costs with planning and design, including detailed design, planning, procurement, professional fees, and assessments.
Laois Fianna Fáil TD Sean Fleming, Minister of State, welcomed the news, saying: “This is very welcome news for both local communities in Laois.
“I want to thank all of the local people in both towns for their work on these projects so far and I look forward to the works progressing to make a positive impact for both towns.”
Laois Fine Gael TD, Charlie Flanagan also heaped praise on the announcement, saying: “The funding will guarantee there is a strong pipeline of shovel-ready projects in the county
“This is just one of many initiatives and recent funding announcements for County Laois, a clear demonstration of Fine Gael’s intention to ensure our towns and villages are great places to live, work and raise a family in.
“I look forward to seeing these projects and initiatives progress, so vacant and derelict buildings in our towns can be brought back into use.”
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