'You can see the community bonding over it'
Westmeath Independent Community & Sports Awards in association with Westmeath County Council
Connaught Street and Environs Community Group: Group of the Year finalist
The Connaught Street and Environs Community Group was formed by local residents and business owners determined to tackle the visible decay and dereliction in their area.
Chairperson Arlene McNeill said the group came together with the view to engage in the regeneration of the local streets and environment working collaboratively with the council and other stakeholders to bring new life and pride to the area.
One of the group’s most significant milestones has been the creation of a Visionary Document outlining their hopes for the street’s future.
“Our most recent achievement really would be the vision document we have for the future of the street,” she said. "This document, developed and launched during Heritage Week, has since been amended and will be presented to council members as part of the group’s ongoing regeneration plans."
The community’s efforts have already earned recognition, with an award from the Heritage Ireland for their contributions during Heritage Week. Over the past three years, the group has hosted numerous successful Heritage Week events and has established a thriving local market featuring more than 30 stalls.
The group’s activities have also strengthened local pride and connection. “You can see the community bonding over it,” Arlene said. Regular clean-up days, the installation of murals on derelict buildings, and collaborations with nearby organisations like the Canal Heritage Group have all contributed to a more vibrant and welcoming environment.
Another key initiative is the restoration of the old graveyard area in Connaught Gardens. The group has catalogued headstones, documented names, and is seeking funding to display and preserve these important pieces of local heritage as part of their Echoes of Old Athlone project.
With a dedicated core committee of around ten members, and supported by up to thirty volunteers, the Connaught Street and Environs Community Group continues to demonstrate the power of grassroots action.
“Dereliction breeds decay,” Arlene said, “but by cleaning it up ourselves, we’re creating progress”.
Their determination and community spirit are transforming Connaught Street into a place that celebrates its heritage while building a brighter, more sustainable future.
The Group of the Year finalists are Connaught Street and Environs Community Group, Athlone Athletics Club and Athlone Gaeltacht
The Westmeath Independent Community & Sports Awards are in association with Westmeath County Council