Gort
Population: 2,870 (2022 Census)
Gort is a market town in the west of Ireland, in south County Galway. The town is located approximately 32 kilometres south of Galway and 64 kilometres north from Limerick on the Atlantic Economic Corridor. Gort is also connected to the M6 Galway to Dublin Motorway. The railway station within the town centre operates daily connections to Galway and Limerick, as part of the Western Rail Corridor. Shannon airport is approximately a 40-minute drive from the town. The strategic geographical location of Gort makes it accessible to most major towns and tourist attractions in County Galway and County Clare.
Plans & Publications
Gort town has a rich architectural history that spans several centuries since its founding in the mid 18th century. Gort provides an important retail, educational and service function for a catchment area, which extends into County Clare. There are significant employment opportunities within the town, and its commercial core. Gort is also one of the most ethnically diverse towns in Ireland, with over one third of the population being non-Irish citizens.
Tourism represents a major asset to Gort which can be enhanced further in the future. Significant tourist attractions include Coole Park, Thoor Ballylee and Kilmacduagh Monastic Settlement. Gort also benefits from proximity to the Burren. Gort is within Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, a popular touring route of rich landscapes and rural towns. Gort is set to be a destination on the emerging Galway to Athlone Cycleway project which is expected to bring an increase in visitors.
This Town Centre First Plan has been developed through a range of public engagements that reflect the ambitions of the local community, businesses, and stakeholders. Gort’s greatest asset is the local community and by working to deliver this Town Centre First Plan, the objectives which have been identified by the people of Gort can be achieved.
The Town Centre First Plan identifies key proposals for future sustainable growth by recognising Gort’s strengths and opportunities. It defines real possibilities and delivers a clear strategy that make Gort an even better place to live, work, study, and visit, both now and for future generations. The Town Team, look forward to working in partnership with the community, Galway County Council, and other stakeholders to assist in delivery of the proposals outlined in this Plan.