Galway County Council has been awarded €100,000 for improvements to the streetscape in Tuam in this year.
Tuam was one of 26 towns chosen for the Streetscape Enhancement Initiative this year, with a total funding of €2.6 million.
Under this initiative, retailers and property owners can receive grants from the county council to improve the facades of their buildings, carry out artwork or install features such as street furniture or canopies.
The goal of the scheme is to give a facelift to towns and villages around the country, making them more attractive to live and work in, or to visit.
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys encouraged business and property owners to apply to their council for funding.
“We all take pride in our rural towns and villages and want them to be as attractive and welcoming as possible. That’s exactly what Streetscapes is all about.”
“I want as many businesses and property owners to get involved over the next few weeks and to avail of this funding.”
“You may wish to give the front of your shop a new lease of life and repaint it in bright, vibrant colours. Perhaps you want to cover your windowsills with flowers and plants or purchase street furniture, canopies for your customers to enjoy.”
Neighbouring businesses and properties are also being urged to consider making a joint proposal to the council for ambitious projects such as murals, which can cover multiple buildings.
The 26 towns due to receive the funding were selected by each local authority in consultation with local businesses and community groups.
Local authorities will manage the initiative locally and will be advertising for applications in the coming weeks.
Ian Talbot of Chambers Ireland said that continuing to invest in towns around the country is a “critical driver” of the domestic economy.
“In the post COVID landscape, including the rapid evolution of flexible working arrangements, making our towns ever more attractive places to live and work is essential to wellbeing and economic growth.”
“We welcome this initiative and encourage the rapid deployment of these funds in the locations chosen.”
