Historic Laois town to host 'health check' meeting

The Abbeyleix Town Health Check project is taking a big step forward with the launch of new community and business surveys.

An information evening will take place at the iconic Heritage House on Monday, February 23 when the public is invited to attend and share their views on the future of the Laois town.

Over the past four months, the Town Regeneration team from Laois County Council has led the project working closely with South East Technological University (SETU), Campus Carlow in conjunction with Abbeyleix Tidy Towns on a comprehensive research study, examining the strengths, challenges, and future opportunities for Abbeyleix.

This Health Check is being conducted in accordance with the Government's Town Centre First Policy which aims to create town centres that are viable, vibrant and attractive locations.

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This next phase places community participation at the front and centre of the process. Residents, business owners, and young people are invited to share their experiences and aspirations for the town. The Community Survey and Business Survey are designed to ensure that the voices of all age groups and sectors are represented.

The engagement of local groups, particularly Abbeyleix Tidy Towns, continues to be instrumental in driving positive change. By taking part in these surveys, community members directly influence the future of the town.

The event will take place between 5.30pm and 7pm and staff from Laois County Council and SETU will be available on the night to answer questions.

“I am encouraging everyone across the Abbeyleix community to come along on the night and take part. Your input, whether as a resident, business owner or young person, will help ensure a positive outcome for all as we plan for the future of the town. We all look forward to welcoming you and hearing your valuable perspectives,” said Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer, Laois County Council.

Robbie Quinn, Abbeyleix Tidy Towns Chairperson, spoke about what it's hoped will emerge from the process. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO.

"We hope it will lead us to access funding for a more detail town sustainable plan In the absence of a current up to date, overarching town plan to replace the very successful Abbeyleix Sustainable Communities Plan 2011 (Abbeyleix-Sustainable-Communities-Plan), including updated master plans and an active travel strategy to guide future growth. This previous plan was the catalyst for the majority of our recent sucesses and awards both nationally and internationally.

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"Without a good plan, there is a real risk of creating a fragmented pattern of development that could undermine the significant progress made in recent years in establishing Abbeyleix as a green and sustainable town, not to mention future tourism potential being created by local businesses. We could end up as another clone town if we are not careful," he said.

Similar Laois Health Checks have been carried out in Stradbally and Ballylinan.