Rathdowney
Population: 1,368 (2022 Census)
Rathdowney is a small town of attractive, traditional character located in the south-west corner of Co. Laois approximately 30km from Portlaoise between the M7 and M8 motorways. The settlement of Rathdowney has existed since at least the 9th century and is focused on the crossing point of a tributary of the Erkina River, which has been an important feature of its historical development.
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The town provides a range of services and facilities for the population of the surrounding hinterland. It is a focus for social and economic interaction in the south-west of the county and provides linkages to smaller settlements in the district, such as Errill, Donaghmore and further afield. Aside from the Town’s commercial core there are also a number of important social and community uses such as the two local schools, a Health Centre, a library, a community centre and a number of social and religious facilities.
Agriculture is the key industry in the surrounding region and forms an important part of the town’s economy and character. Industry in the Town prospered with the development of a brewery, dating back to the Perry family in 1800, eventually purchased by Irish Ale Breweries and closed in 1967. The brewery site was purchased by Lyons Meats and converted to a meat processing facility which is now Dawn Meats, the largest employer within Rathdowney.
Extensive engagement with the community including drop-in community clinics, online business and community surveys, youth workshops and consultations with key strategic stakeholders helped to inform the Town Team’s development of this Town Centre First Plan. The plan provides the opportunity for Rathdowney to capitalise on its main strengths and advantages such as its picturesque surroundings and quality of life to drive regeneration of the town centre as a great place in which live, work and visit.