'We have to capitalise on international draw of Niall Horan'

Mullingar must capitalise on its global musical reputation and the international draw of Niall Horan by accelerating plans for a town-wide music trail, councillors have said.

At the April meeting of the Mullingar Kinnegad Municipal District, councillors heard that a long-discussed music trail is now progressing, and the first phase of a QR code-based initiative is expected to launch shortly.

Proposing the motion, Cllr Emily Wallace said the project has taken on new urgency following the announcement of major tour dates by the former One Direction star, which are expected to draw international visitors to Ireland, and potentially to his hometown.

She said Mullingar has already experienced the impact of “music tourism”, as visitors travel specifically to see locations associated with Horan’s early life and career.

“We need to make it a memorable experience for them when they come to Mullingar,” she said. “We don’t have a clear go-to at the moment, and that’s what this trail can provide.”

Cllr Wallace pointed to existing attractions including murals, local venues, and landmarks such as the Greville Arms Hotel and Clarke’s Bar, but said a coordinated and accessible trail was needed to tie them together.

She also highlighted the broader economic opportunity, urging businesses and the hospitality sector to work together to create a welcoming and engaging visitor experience, particularly with a short lead-in time before November.

Cllr Denis Leonard, seconding the motion, described Mullingar as a “jewel in the crown of Irish music”, noting its rich heritage spanning from legends like Joe Dolan to contemporary global stars.

He said a music trail could mirror successful tourism concepts elsewhere, such as mural and cultural trails, and would allow visitors to engage more deeply with the town’s identity.

“We should be celebrating this in every way we can,” he said, adding that Horan’s continued promotion of Mullingar internationally presented a unique opportunity.

Cllr Andrew Duncan also backed the proposal, remarking on Horan’s global recognition. He recalled being abroad and finding the singer was the only Irish person locals recognised. “He’s a great ambassador for the town,” he said.

Cllr Aoife Davitt pointed to the success of similar QR-based trails developed during Fleadh Cheoil events, and said Mullingar could build on that model. She noted that even simple features such as timelines and statues continue to attract visitors.

“We have phenomenal ambassadors for our town across the world,” she said. “Anything we can do to add to this would be absolutely amazing.”

Cllr Bill Collentine said there was clear demand for such an initiative, noting that visitors still travel to Mullingar to experience locations linked to its musical heritage.

Cllr Wallace, responding, said the town must avoid missing the opportunity presented by the upcoming tour dates, suggesting themed promotions and coordinated efforts by local businesses. “We are selling Mullingar and we want to show our pride,” she said.

Cllr Niall Gaffney described the town’s musical output as “genuinely unmatched”, citing acts such as The Blizzards and The Academic as further evidence of its cultural strength.

Cllr Ken Glynn said Mullingar had “punched above its weight” and stressed that expanding the trail would support tourism and local businesses.

The mayor, Cllr Mick Dollard, added that the initial QR code installation is expected to begin at the Joe Dolan statue, allowing visitors to access music and information digitally. He also praised Niall Horan for remaining grounded and continuing to promote his hometown.

Providing an update, council official Mary Goldsberry said the Chamber of Commerce is progressing the project, and recording work is under way in collaboration with the Dolan family. She confirmed the first phase of the QR-based trail is imminent, and expansion is planned subject to funding.

Ms Goldsberry added that the initiative forms part of the broader ‘Destination Mullingar’ strategy, supported by €30,000 in funding, and will feed into a wider tourism action plan.

“We’re grateful to Niall for putting Mullingar on the map,” she said.