Category Three – Population Category 1,000 – 3,000
Winner: Abbeyleix, Co Laois
Summary:
Abbeyleix Tidy Towns Committee was established in 1959 in an effort to galvanise the community to work together to ensure Abbeyleix was not only a great place in which to live, but to work in and visit. Over the year the Committee grew and forged alliances with Laois County Council, local schools and community groups, building a momentum that is evidenced today by the achievements of the group. Charged with creating a community that continues to be an attractive place to live, work and visit the focus is now on place-making and on re-imagining a beautiful heritage town as a smart and sustainable community. There is an inclusive ethos and determination to engage the wider community in the work. The Committee collaborates freely with external groups and institutions and maintains a very positive working relationship with a range of public bodies and agencies, not least the Local Authority. It promotes a ‘support local’ ethos and is currently working on significant flagship biodiversity and climate action projects.
Community Contact: Pamela Tynan
Citation:
The judges said that this is one of the finest examples in the island of Ireland, of community development enhancing the everyday lives of the local population and visitors alike. Their bog conservation project, the jewel in the crown, has gained international accolade – it is one of many outstanding initiatives
