Public's views sought on Blackhall development

Opinions on the form that the regeneration of Blackhall should take are being sought by Westmeath County Council.

A public consultation process begins today, Tuesday July 20, and runs until Tuesday August 3 – and everyone from residents to retailers, is being encouraged to share their views and ideas.

Announcing the start of the public consultation, the council explained that its aim for Blackhall is to create what it is describing as “a highly sustainable new urban quarter”, taking in the carpark areas and also the fenced-in waste ground, running all the way down to the railway line.

It believes that by capitalising upon Blackhall’s strategic town centre location, the area will be able to support development on the economic, social and community development fronts.

This initial consultation is part of the preparation of a masterplan funded by the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) which is provided to support sustainable development, as set out in Project Ireland 2040.

The council has engaged Savills consultants to prepare the masterplan that is intended to shape the future development of the area and to deliver “positive regeneration and transformation”.

As part of the process, Westmeath County Council is inviting all stakeholders and interested parties including community and sporting groups to get involved.

To facilitate this engagement, a dedicated information event will be held on Wednesday July 28 at 6pm to discuss the project. Because of the current public health restrictions, due to COVID -19, this session will take place digitally, via Zoom.

To complete the survey, find out more information and sign up to the online event visit www.blackhallplace.com. Members of the public can also contact the project team by emailing regen@westmeathcoco.ie or calling 044 9332019