Official Launch of Town Centre First Video
On Wednesday 28 February 2024, The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell TD published the first ever Town Centre First plans for 26 towns across every county.
The Plans which were developed in consultation with local communities represent the vision of local people for their area and contain proposals for a diverse range of projects such as redeveloping derelict sites, creating community parks and walkways, boosting SME and tourism potential, and protecting historical landmarks.
The Ministers were joined at the Launch by the Town Regeneration Officers who have been appointed in every Local Authority to drive implementation of the new plans with the support of Government funding through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Town Centre First Heritage Revival (THRIVE) Scheme and the Historic Towns Initiative.
Minister Humphries also announced the next 26 towns approved to develop Town Centre First Plans. TCF National co-ordinator, Mairéad Hunt, noted that towns now have a unique opportunity to participate in Town Centre First and create more vibrant and attractive town centres.