€4.7m regeneration project will bring 'vitality and viability' to Westmeath town's centre

The €4.7m regeneration of Castlepollard will bring “vitality and viability to the town centre”, the chief executive of Westmeath County Council says.

Speaking after the announcement that the government has approved €3.8m from its Rural Regeneration Fund for the project, which will be led by Westmeath County Council’s Regeneration Project Team and will require match funding of €900,000 from the local authority, chief executive Pat Gallagher said: “I welcome the positive news of this significant RRDF funding which will provide much needed community facilities in the refurbished Market House, bringing vitality and viability to the town centre. The regeneration project will also deliver a town park, supporting healthier lifestyles and increased footfall within the town”

Speaking after the announcement the Cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke said: “The investment in Castlepollard will renew the historical focal point of the Town Square and enhance the town’s potential as an attractive place to live, work and visit.”

David Jones, Director of Service, Mullingar-Kinnegad Municipal District said, “I am delighted with the announcement of such significant investment in the town and thank the Minister, Department of Rural and Community Development, local development groups, businesses and the wider community whose co-operation led to the success of the application”.

In a statement released to the media, the council also said that the the funding “affords an unprecedented opportunity to deliver an investment in the community facilities and amenities of a rural town, that will facilitate community development and prosperity”.

“This investment is more important than ever to help economic activity and sustainable development into the future in Castlepollard and the surrounding hinterland.”