Students investigate County Longford town's potential through research project
Innovative collaboration between Technological University Dublin and Longford County Council
AN INNOVATIVE collaboration between Technological University Dublin and Longford County Council has resulted in the creation of an impressive streetscape model and detailed architectural illustrations of Granard town centre.
Students from Technological University Dublin will unveil their comprehensive research project on Granard’s built environment with an upcoming exhibition to be hosted in Granard and Longford Town.
The exhibition will be on display in Granard Library from Wednesday evening, October 28 to Monday morning, November 2 before it moves to Áras an Chontae, Longford Town from Tuesday, November 3 to Monday, November 16.
The exhibition will feature a physical street model along with the students' design proposals and presentation drawings for Granard Town. This ambitious project, led by TU Dublin’s School of Architecture, Building and Environment in partnership with Longford County Council’s Planning Section, features a highly detailed streetscape model and comprehensive building surveys. The research presents a valuable foundation that could inform future investment and development in the area.
Council Architect Ciara Reynolds and TU Dublin Architecture Tutors Cora Carbajo and Gavin Buggy played a key role in the project. This is the second year that TU Dublin’s School of Architecture has chosen County Longford as its focus area – last year’s project focused on the town of Ballymahon.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Gerry Hagan said: “Granard has a rich history and a distinctive character, and it is fascinating to see it interpreted through the eyes of the next generation of architects. The students have produced work of an exceptional standard, highlighting both the strengths of the town and opportunities for its future development. I would encourage everyone to visit the exhibition and see how thoughtful design and careful research can help shape the future of our communities.”
Chief Executive of Longford County Council Samantha Healy praised the students' approach: “They have created a detailed record of Granard’s built environment that will support future discussions around regeneration, heritage and sustainable development. The quality of the work demonstrates how collaboration between local government and higher education can deliver real benefits for communities.”
Council Architect Ciara Reynolds commented: “It has been a pleasure to welcome the TU Dublin students back to County Longford for a second successive year... We have built a strong partnership with the university, and we are excited about the prospect of continuing this collaboration and exploring other towns across the county in the years ahead.”