Low Athlone area uptake of council’s Shopfront Enhancement Grant highlighted

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Just five businesses in the Athlone/Moate Municipal District area have received the Shopfront Enhancement Grant so far in 2026.

A total of €18,409 in funding has been provided as of April of this year in the Athlone/Moate area. In 2024, the scheme provided a total of €46,806 to 18 local businesses, while 2025 saw a drop in applications, with just six businesses in this area making use of a total of €21,712 in funding.

The information was shared in response to a question posed by Cllr Frankie Keena at a recent Athlone Moate Municipal District meeting.

"It's a shame to see such a low uptake," he said.

The aim of the scheme is to enhance the streetscape environment of towns and villages throughout Westmeath by encouraging and supporting owners of local retail and commercial premises to improve their individual shopfronts.

It is intended that the scheme will result in a more attractive environment that residents, visitors, shoppers and businesses can enjoy.

It is also envisaged that this scheme will assist in promoting our towns and villages as attractive places for social and business interaction, thereby increasing the vitality and viability of our settlements with positive benefits for all.

Grants of up to €4,500 or 75% of the cost of the works (vat exclusive) are available for qualifying solo applicants. For collaboration projects from three or more adjoining businesses, grants of up to €6,000 or 75% of the costs (vat exclusive) are available for qualifying joint applicants, at least two out of three properties must be rated (66%).

Where a business undertakes to improve accessibility for the elderly or people with disabilities, grants of up to €6,000 or 75% of the costs (vat exclusive), for that particular initiative, are available for qualifying applicants.