Funding in place to enable growth in Limerick's county town
Newcastle West set for a boost from €200,000 Thrive funding
NEWCASTLE West is set to get almost €200,000 in funding to develop a new urban strategy for its town centre.
The money has been made available through the Thrive initiative, designed to support larger urban settlements like Limerick’s county town.
People in Newcastle West are being invited to have their say on the blueprint, which is designed to ensure the town continues to be a hub for living, working, shopping, and socialising.
Mayor John Moran said: “The funding presents a tremendous opportunity. Newcastle West is a very active community, as we all know, and it's one of our big key growth towns for the next 20 years or so.
“We've started a consultation so we can hear how the people of Newcastle West would like to see us thinking about some of the buildings that have either got into dereliction or just need repurposing. I encourage everyone to get involved in the consultation process to help us create a vibrant and sustainable town centre,” he added.
Council director Stephane Duclot said the success of the strategy hinges on the active participation of those in Newcastle West.
“We are committed to a collaborative approach, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard. Together, we can build a future for Newcastle West that is inclusive, sustainable, and beautiful,” he said.
Among the things Mayor Moran wants to find out is whether Newcastle West needs a bypass.
As it stands, one is planned with a preferred route selected.
But it’s been held up with An Bord Pleanala seeking more information around the environmental measures of a new road.
“We probably do logically (need a bypass) because as soon as you bypass Adare, everyone is going to end up trying to get into Newcastle West. But we want to test that and make sure we have the evidence to show it.”
He also said more analysis must be done on whether a bypass would incorporate a distributor road into the town.
It’s anticipated the strategy will be completed by early 2025.
For more information or to participate in the consultation, visit Limerick.ie or share your thoughts at mypoint.limerick.ie.
Alternatively, please telephone 061-556000.