Laois town's regeneration plans to go on public display

Four projects developed to reconnect Mountrath with the Whitehorse River

Plans to regenerate Mountrath Town Centre are set to go out on public display after being developed over the last six months.

The Mountrath Town Team has been working with Joseph Mackey Architects to develop proposals which will specifically examine how to reconnect Mountrath with the Whitehorse River as a link to its rich history of linen and cotton weaving.

Now the public will get the chance to see the new ideas for themselves when they go on display from Monday, November 25 to Friday, November 29 in Bloom HQ.

Four innovative projects designed to animate the town will be displayed. They include:

- The Installation of railings on Patrick St Bridge wall to expand the eye-line of the river.

- Covered walkway arch over lane from Main Street to Whitehorse River.

- Pitched roof over Town Square in footprint of old Market Building linking the town community space to the river.

- Suggested development of a nature reserve wetland/amenity in town park land.

These proposals are based on consultations with community stakeholders and will highlight the concepts by Joseph Mackey Architects to regenerate Mountrath. The proposals are in line with the Government’s Town Centre First Policy and will support the Town Team in their efforts to revitalise the town centre. This project was funded by the Irish Architect Foundation as part of their Re-Imagine Programme. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

Mountrath Square (1900-1920). Eason Photographic Collection_NLI Ref Eas 2749.

"This project has provided an opportunity for the Mountrath Town Team to engage with an architect and create a connection between the town and one of its most important amenities, the Whitehorse River’," says Mark Sheeran, Chairperson of Mountrath Town Team. Through consultation and collaboration with the local community, the project has engaged the public imagination.

"The site of the river was used as an opportunity to explore and remember important cultural histories and social practices and to see how the town could reconnect artistically, with the river’’, explains Joseph Mackey, Architect, MRIAI.

"The Exhibition at Bloom HQ is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to view the research and recommendations envisaged for Mountrath Town Centre’’ says Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer, Laois County Council.

The exhibition will open from 25th to 29th November – 9am –to 5pm. Smaller scale drawings will be available to view in Mountrath Public Library.