The local authority said the event attracted a full house of enthusiastic attendees from across the county. This included town teams, business owners, voluntary organisations, and community leaders — all eager to explore funding opportunities and connect with experts.
The council said the "dynamic and inclusive" atmosphere highlighted the "collaborative spirit that continues to drive positive change" in Laois.
“This roadshow exceeded expectations, — the engagement, the questions, the networking — it clearly demonstrated the appetite and readiness of communities across Laois to drive local development” said Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer at Laois County Council.
“We were especially encouraged to see so many groups interested in tackling vacancy and dereliction issues, a key focus of our regeneration work here under the government’s Town Centre First Policy.
“Laois County Council extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended, participated, and supported the roadshow in the fabulous inclusive venue that is Bloom HQ. Together, we are regenerating, stronger, more vibrant towns and villages across Laois,” she said.
The council said attendees were provided with:
- In-depth guidance on current and future grant schemes and application processes
- Practical advice on community development funding
- Strategies for transforming vacant and derelict properties
- One-on-one consultations with Council and Laois Partnership experts
- An opportunity for community representatives and town teams from different towns across the county to network and share ideas about town centre regeneration and revitalisation with like-minded individuals.
The council said participants left equipped with clear next steps and actionable insights to secure funding for a diverse array of projects. The roadshow also provided a critical early look at 2025 grant timelines, helping local groups prepare well in advance.
The Regeneration team at Laois County Council is already exploring opportunities to host follow-up sessions and thematic funding clinics later in the year.
Hosted in the welcoming Liath Luachra Suite, the Funding Roadshow featured representatives from key Laois County Council departments including the Business Support Unit, Laois Local Enterprise Office, Regeneration, Vacant Homes’ & Climate Action, Tourism, Sports & Recreation Sections, Local Authority Integration Team, Laois Sports Partnership, Healthy Ireland, Creative Ireland, LAWPRO, PPN, Just Transition Fund & EU Just Transition Fund Tourism Activator. Laois Partnership also played a central role, offering expert advice on a wide range of community-focused grants.
For further information or follow-up queries or photography, please contact: Laois County Council, Regeneration Office
Email: [email protected]
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We want your photos to feature on the website via our Camera Club. Do you have a great photo from life in the locality? Whether it’s a party, wedding, communion, landscape, a quirky shot from your archives, or a simple everyday moment, we want your snapshots.
We are inviting people to share photos that capture the spirit of the county. From special occasions to quieter moments, your pictures help tell the story of everyday life in our community.
To submit:
Go to the Camera Club page and follow the instructions to upload your photo. Include your name, where it was taken, and a short caption if you can.
Your photo could be featured on our website and newspaper and seen by readers across the county and beyond.
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