New signs, lighting and street furniture welcomed by Laois CEO

Portlaoise’s new interpretive signs are designed to inform, engage and provide a sense of place to locals and visitors alike. 

Laois County Council was awarded €500,000 under Fáilte Ireland’s Destination Towns Capital Investment Scheme to boost the attractiveness and tourism appeal of Portlaoise.

The grant aimed to enhance the access routes within the town connecting the older traditional section of the town with newly developed sections of Portlaoise by means of wayfinding interpretive signage in addition to signage detailing the history of the town and in particular the Old Fort Protector site.

The new suite of interpretive panels and signs are now in place at various locations throughout Portlaoise. Other aspects of the project included a street enhancement scheme which resulted in a range of buildings being painted around the town. New lighting was also installed in the three laneways, Bull Lane, Lyster Lane and Peppers Lane, at the Old Fort area and adjoining  streets.  New street furniture, footpath enhancements and landscaping improvements were carried out in key locations of the town centre as part of the project.

Laois County Council said the initiative has been warmly received by residents and visitors alike as it has improved  the amenities and  the appearance of the town.

Following consultation with Portlaoise Town Team and the Heritage Forum, work commenced on compiling all the relevant information required to produce the signs. The objective was to present the interesting heritage of Portlaoise in an engaging manner that is informative and evocative to both residents and visitors, and to create a sense of place in the historic core area of the town using high quality design and interpretation.  Haley Sharpe Design were awarded the design contract while the manufacturing contract was awarded to  CLS signage and facility management.

CE of Laois County Council John Mulholland, acknowledged the continued support of Fáilte Ireland. He also complimented both Haley Sharpe Design and CLS Signage. Mr Mulholland said the project would add to the tourism offering, making Portlaoise and Laois a great place to live, work and visit.

Speaking in Portlaoise, Manager of Ireland’s Ancient East at Fáilte Ireland, Justine Carey said: “Fáilte Ireland is committed to the sustainable development of tourism across Ireland, which serves as a crucial economic driver and source of employment. We actively seek opportunities to expand the number of appealing destinations that offer captivating experiences for visitors, with the potential to drive visitors across the regions, which is why initiatives like our Destination Towns scheme are so important.

Fáilte Ireland’s work in partnership with Laois County Council through the Destination Towns scheme has significantly enhanced Portaloise Town’s appeal as a tourist destination. By bringing the town’s unique history and heritage to life, improving visitor orientation, and enhancing pedestrian movement and accessibility, visitors will stay longer, spend more and immerse themselves in local activities and culture.”