Kilkenny towns and villages groups excel at Tidy Towns Awards 2024

The commitment and efforts of community organisations in Kilkenny were celebrated at this year’s Tidy Towns awards, with a host of local towns and villages scooping accolades.

The awards honour communities dedicated to enhancing their local surroundings, showcasing the remarkable contributions of various groups throughout the county.

Inistioge Tidy Towns was honoured with both a Gold Medal and first place in the County Awards category, while Coan Tidy Towns secured the Endeavour Award for the biggest improvement by an entrant in each county from the previous year.
Keep Kilkenny Beautiful, in partnership with Kilkenny County Council’s city environment and parks team, continued its success by retaining its Gold Medal and finishing in second place in the County Awards.

Tullahought Tidy Towns was awarded Highly Commended for their work under the National Pollinator Programme during the ceremony held at Croke Park on November 1, 2024. Their unwavering dedication to cleanliness, improving green spaces, and promoting community pride has distinguished them in this competitive field.

This year, Kilkenny had three new entrants under the national competition with Graignamanagh, Piltown, and Owning demonstrating their exceptional efforts and work for their respective communities. The three scored strongly for their first time around.

The ongoing initiatives of our Tidy Towns groups, which focus on advocating sustainable practices, educating the public on waste management, and enhancing public spaces, have played a vital role in elevating the quality of life throughout Kilkenny City and county.

“The successes of our Tidy Towns groups in Kilkenny highlight the strength of community spirit and partnership,” said Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Michael McCarthy. “Their dedicated engagement and participation have significantly transformed their communities, setting exemplary standards for environmental stewardship and community involvement.”

Reflecting on Kilkenny’s achievements, Mags Whelan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Kilkenny County Council, shared her admiration for these groups.

“The nominated and triumphant Tidy Towns groups in Kilkenny have raised the bar for others in the county and beyond,” she said. “Their steadfast dedication to maintaining a clean and sustainable environment is truly motivating, and we take immense pride in their remarkable successes.”
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