Ballymahon regeneration plan launched by local authority
A roadmap to strengthen social infrastructure, tackle isolation and improve connections in Ballymahon has been launched by Longford County Council.
The Urban Renewal (UR) Impact Integrated Action Plan is the culmination of two and a half years work that brought together local residents, stakeholders and council representatives to place local community needs at the centre of an extensive regeneration project.
Through extensive engagement, a vision was identified, to create an environment where all sectors of the community feel part of the town and to support sustainable, community-led development with robust governance.
Four goals underpin the plan:
• Develop a community-aligned governance structure to support project delivery and management
• Provide spaces for older people to socialise, engage and contribute meaningfully
• Create a town where young people are supported through high-quality services and welcoming spaces
• Improve connections within Ballymahon
Priority actions include establishing a Men's Shed and bringing Foróige Youth Services to the town.
An initial community event held at Bridgeway’s Family Resource Centre on November 20 brought together representatives from Men's Sheds in the county to share their experiences with local men interested in starting a shed in Ballymahon.
Students from Mercy Secondary School and Ballymahon Vocational School met with Foróige Youth Services Coordinator Dawn Gorman to explore opportunities for youth services.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "This plan demonstrates what happens when we genuinely listen to communities and act on what matters to them. The Men's Shed movement has changed lives across County Longford, and our young people need spaces where they can flourish. These aren't distant aspirations – this is a practical framework that will strengthen the foundations of Ballymahon."
Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "The Integrated Action Plan represents a fundamental shift in how we approach urban regeneration. By placing social, economic and environmental wellbeing at the core, we're building something that will endure. The engagement and energy shown by Ballymahon residents gives me confidence that this plan will deliver meaningful, lasting change."