Louth County Council appoints design team for Dunleer regeneration

Louth County Council has signed a contract with Cooney Architects to deliver design services for the Dunleer - Energising the Community Project.

Funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), the public realm project will support the delivery of key regeneration measures identified within the Dunleer Town Centre First Plan.

The design project will focus on two key areas: Main Street and the area surrounding the former railway station and library buildings. The design work will develop the plans that will enable the public realm project to progress to the planning stage.

Launched by Louth County Council in May 2024, the Dunleer Town Centre First Plan sets out a long-term vision for the sustainable regeneration and enhancement of the town centre. It was the first Town Centre First Plan completed in County Louth and is being delivered on a phased basis.

The Dunleer - Energising the Community Project forms a key part of that vision and includes the delivery of key actions identified through the Town Centre First process.

Welcoming the appointment of Cooney Architects and highlighting the wider benefits of the project, Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: "The Town Centre First approach is helping to create vibrant and sustainable communities across County Louth.

“This project is an important step in delivering the vision for Dunleer while demonstrating how investment in our towns can improve quality of life, support local businesses and strengthen communities throughout the county."

Cllr Jim Tenanty, Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District of Ardee, added: "This is an important milestone for Dunleer. The regeneration of the Main Street and the area around the former railway station and library buildings will create attractive and welcoming public spaces, support local cultural and economic activity and enhance Dunleer as a place to live, work and visit."

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said the appointment reflects the Council's ongoing commitment to delivering regeneration projects across the county.

"The appointment of Cooney Architects is a significant step forward in turning the Dunleer Town Centre First Plan into reality.

“This project reflects Louth County Council's ambition to invest in high-quality regeneration that strengthens our towns and villages, supports sustainable growth and improves the experience of residents, businesses and visitors.

“We look forward to working with the community and stakeholders as the design process progresses."

Bryan Brady, Director of Cooney Architects, added: "We are delighted to be working with Louth County Council on the Dunleer - Energising the Community Project.

“The project presents an exciting opportunity to build on the strong vision developed through the Town Centre First Plan and to create design proposals that will enhance the heart of Dunleer while respecting its unique character and heritage.

“We look forward to engaging with the local community and stakeholders throughout the design process and helping to deliver a project that will provide lasting benefits for the town."

The design process will begin immediately and will include extensive public consultation, building on the significant community engagement already undertaken during the preparation of the Town Centre First Plan.

Following completion of the design stage, the project is expected to progress to the formal Part 8 planning process by 2028.