August start for renovation of Laois town's Market Square
Rathdowney Market Square 'was the main feature before the meat factory'
A Laois town's traditional Market Square is about to get a €213,000 Government makeover.
Rathdowney's central square "was the main feature before the meat factory" according to Fine Gael Cllr John King.
He is welcome the imminent start of renovation works in the public realm, aimed to bring back community activities to the leafy square.
Cllr King gave an update at the June meeting of Laois County Council.
"The work will be from O'Malley's pub to the front of the Card Stand. Prices are out for tender. Work will start in August," he said.
In their monthly report, Laois County Council gave more details.
The project is funded by a Town and Village Scheme grant of €213,000.
"This project is being led by Laois County Council. It consists of junction improvements and footpath enhancement works which will enhance connectivity and accessibility in the town.
"Consultant Engineers have been appointed for junction and public realm improvement work and design work in well advance. Tender documents for the procurement of a work contractors are expected to be complete in early June." the council said.
The works follow the development of a Town First Plan for Rathdowney, which examined its challenges and its positives, making suggestions for improvements and paving the way for grant applications.