Judges ‘genuinely amazed’ by effort made in Ballyouskill
BALLYOUSKILL’S steady imrpovements over the past few years were described as heartening by Tidy Towns judges when they visited the village earlier this summer.
In giving a score of 286, the judge was “genuinely amazed” to find that the “impressive performance” was down to one committee member and one FÁS person, however it was suggested that they form links with local clubs or groups as well as the county councils to help them with their projects.
Ballyouskill is dominated by the “attractive and impressive church building located in the town centre”. Judges praised the maintainance of the church as well as the Priest well and the stiles for the mass walk. Other premises were alos impressive on the day of judging, including the community hall and Patrick Foley’s premises.
“A major strength of Ballyouskill is the intact nature of its small village core with excellent traditional design buildings maintained to a high standard. The adjudicator was struck by what appeared to be the presence of farms and farm buildings in the village and the high standard of presentation achieved by them”.
Landscaping was also another highlight in the village, not just in the centre but along the approach roads and in private residences. “The approach from Attanagh is very impressive with a good range of plants and perennials to be found on the roadside verges. The contribution of householders and property owners was also noted. It is clear that a determined effort has been made to provide a diverse range of species in your landscaping schemes”.
Wildlife in the area was another positive for the village with a wildlife area to the north, with judges stating: “you have turned what would otherwise be a forgotten and possibly rundown site into an attractive amenity and wildlife are for the village”. However it wqs suggested that a wildlife survey be carried out in the area to maximise the potential.
The village was described as virtually litter free on the day of judging, with a very successful litter strategy. The village was described as tidy with work being completed on the church and roadside verges but improvements can be made, including signs in the area. The judges were very impressed with the effort put into keeping the village clean and tidy. “Ballyouskill isboth an attractive and interesting village to visit”.
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Weather for Portlaoise
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 10 C to 19 C
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