Limerick City and County Council is seeking local views on the future of Newcastle West. Almost €200,000 (€199,116) in funding has been secured to develop an Integrated Urban Strategy for Newcastle West Town Centre.
This significant funding, secured through the THRIVE initiative, will enable the Council to work closely with the local community to shape the future of Newcastle West.
Building on Newcastle West’s Strengths
Newcastle West, the largest town in County Limerick, is a vibrant market town with a rich history and a diverse, multicultural population. The town boasts a strong manufacturing base, thriving retail sector, and essential services in education, health, and more. The strategy will enhance these existing strengths, ensuring Newcastle West continues to be a hub for living, working, shopping, and socialising.
Community Engagement and Strategy Development
The strategy for Newcastle West will be developed collaboratively, involving key stakeholders and citizens to create a delivery-focused plan comprising a pipeline of potential future projects. These projects will align with existing plans and policies, such as the NCW Local Area Plan and Local Transport Plan, with the aim of revitalising the Town Centre. Additionally, a Town Team will be established in Newcastle West, supported by funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating:
“The THRIVE funding presents a tremendous opportunity. Newcastle West is a very active community, as we all know, and it's one of our big key growth towns for the next 20 years or so. We've started a consultation so we can hear how the people of Newcastle West would like to see us thinking about some of the buildings that have either got into dereliction or just need repurposing. I encourage everyone to get involved in the consultation process to help us create a vibrant and sustainable town centre.”
Stephane Duclot, Director of Service, Rural, Culture and Community Development at Limerick City and County Council, highlighted the importance of community engagement, saying:
“The success of this strategy hinges on the active participation of our community. We are committed to a collaborative approach, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard. Together, we can build a future for Newcastle West that is inclusive, sustainable, and beautiful.”
About the THRIVE Grant
THRIVE is designed to support larger urban settlements, including cities, regional growth centres, and key towns. It complements other national funds targeting smaller urban areas. In Limerick, only Limerick City and Newcastle West qualify for this scheme. Co-designed by the Regional Assemblies and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, THRIVE addresses European, national, and regional policy objectives. It is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
Project Timeline
The engagement process commenced in early October, and the strategy is expected to be completed by early 2025.
Find out more on Limerick.ie
Have your say at mypoint.limerick.ie
We look forward to your active participation in shaping the future of Newcastle West.