Laois Heritage Town of Abbeyleix could be about to get a new handle

The public is being asked to give their views on the idea of giving the designated Heritage Town of Abbeyleix a new slogan.

The proposal to choose from four options emerged at a public information event on the Health Check being carried out in the town, led by Abbeyleix Tidy Towns in association with Laois County Council and the South East Technological University (SETU).

The Council says a Town Centre Health Check is a comprehensive study of the town identifying its strengths, weaknesses and future opportunities. It includes surveys on land use, vacancy rates, business activity and visitor experience to guide future planning, development and regeneration.

 SETU and council staff were on hand at the event in Heritage House on March 23 to assist with the completon of the surveys and answering questions about the study process.

The council says the surveys are an opportunity for residents, business owners and community groups to shape the future of Abbeyleix. The local authority states that findings will be essential data for future town centre first plans and regeneration projects.

Survey participants are also invited to select their preferred slogan for the town, with options BELOW PHOTO:

Pictured: (L to R) Angela McEvoy Director of Services (Laois County Council), Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer (Laois County Council) Cllr Barry Walsh (Cathaoirleach, Laois County Council), Mark Clancy (Abbeyleix Tidy Towns Committee), Andrea McNamara, Lecturer, South East Technological University, SETU, Carlow, Sharon Harris-Byrne, Senior Lecturer and Programme Director, International Business, South East Technological University, SETU, Carlow. 

• Abbeyleix – A Living Heritage Town
• Abbeyleix – Past Led, Future Ready
• Abbeyleix – Tradition, Innovation, Community
• Abbeyleix - Gem of the Midlands

Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer with Laois County Council, spoke at the event.

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“We were very encouraged but not surprised by the response to the event, as Abbeyleix has a good tradition of strong community spirit. For anyone in Abbeyleix who didn’t get a chance to attend the event, we would encourage you to complete the surveys online and have your say. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Pictured: Residents carrying out the survey in Heritae House.

“We need to hear in particular from the business community as well as young people aged 13-18 years of age. 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,” she said.

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The Council asks those who couldn’t make the evening to take part in the surveys by completing them online. 

Survey links:

• Residential/Community - Abbeyleix Town Health Check Consumer/Residential Survey HERE
• Business/Commerical - Abbeyleix Town Health Check Business/Commercial Survey HERE
• Youth Surveys - Abbeyleix Town Health Check Youth Survey HERE

All surveys can be found on Laois County Council’s consultation portal on www.laois.ie HERE

The deadline for survey completion is  Monday, March 9.