Limerick City and County Council offer businesses grants to 'Leave A Light On'

LIMERICK City and County Council has announced the launch of the “Leave a Light On” campaign, an initiative aimed at enhancing the vibrancy, safety, and sense of community in Limerick’s urban areas during the darker winter months.

Running from November 17 to December 31, the campaign invites local businesses to leave a light on in their shopfronts until midnight to 1am to help brighten the city’s streets, making them more welcoming for residents, workers, and visitors enjoying Limerick after dark.

This initiative is part of Limerick’s broader commitment to supporting the night-time economy and fostering a safer, more inclusive city environment.

Recognising the additional energy costs involved, participating businesses will be eligible to apply for a grant of €250 (including VAT) to help offset expenses. The Council encourages the use of energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, to ensure sustainability remains a core part of the campaign.

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Eligible businesses can register their interest and seek an application form by emailing craig.power@limerick.ie. 

Participants are also encouraged to share photos of their illuminated premises on social media using the hashtag #leavealightonLK and follow and tag @limerickatnight on Instagram.

Nighttime Economy Adviser at Limerick City and County Council, Craig Power commented:

“This initiative is a simple yet powerful way to support our local businesses, enhance public safety, and bring warmth to our city during the winter months. We hope to see Limerick lit up with community spirit.”

The Leave a Light On grant scheme is part of the Night-Time Economy pilot programme, supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport. The initiative encourages late-night vibrancy, with local businesses offering special offers, pop-up events, and extended hours.

Eligibility Criteria

Location-Based Requirement: Must be a street-facing business front located within Limerick City Centre.

Business Type: Open to retail shops, cafés, restaurants, salons, and other customer-facing premises. Excludes residential properties, industrial units, or offices not accessible to the public.

Operating Hours: Must commit to leaving shopfront lights on until at least midnight, even if the business is closed.

Lighting Standards: Ideally use energy-efficient lighting (e.g. LED bulbs). Lighting must be visible from the street and contribute to public realm illumination.

Safety and Compliance: Lighting must not cause glare or safety issues for pedestrians or drivers. Businesses must comply with all local fire and electrical safety regulations.

Social Media Participation: Businesses are encouraged to share photos of their lit-up premises using campaign hashtags.

Grant Conditions: One grant per business premises. Businesses must submit a short photo or proof of participation (e.g. image of lit shopfront) by end of campaign. Grants will be issued after confirmation of participation.

Applications must be submitted by November 10, with limited grants available on a first-come, first-served basis.