Funding of €1.5m announced for Mullingar

Funding of €1.5m has just been announced for enhancement works in Mullingar.

Minister Alan Kelly made the announcement following funding provided under the EU Development Plan.

It is understood funds, which must be matched by Westmeath County Council, will be spent on improvement works such as pedestrianising some areas of the town and creating improved public spaces.

Some of the works will take place at Pearse Street-Castle Street junction, Market Square and Dominic Square. 

Longford Westmeath Labour Party TD Willie Penrose has welcomed the announcement by the saying “I have been strongly lobbying my government colleagues for funding to deliver improvements to Mullingar town.

“I am delighted Minister Alan Kelly has announced €1.5m in funding will be provided under the EU Development Plan for Mullingar.

“The funding will be used to pedestrianise areas of Mullingar town centre to provide greater public space.

“The public spaces will be created. This will make it easier for families to come into Mullingar, which will benefit businesses.”

Retail competition

Cllr Una D'Arcy said the need for this investment in the town was discussed in great detail by the councillors in October.

"Retail is a really challenging industry now and the focus of successful retailing has changed. The key driver in town centres has changed from daytime retail to evening leisure/amenity/entertainment.

"For our businesses to compete with online and large out-of-town retail, and to attract new business, its all about the entire town including the environment of the parks, the streets, the buildings, pedestrian spaces, civic spaces, urban street art. Its the whole shebang and showing investment sends a strong message that this town works all together to benefit all its people. 

A beautiful town will bring more people into it and make shopping a nice experience- much better than browsing on a computer. Investing in nice paved walkways is an investment in job security and attracting industry- it plays a really important part."