Information event in Longford library on Garvey's Yard and Weaver's Hall redesign

Longford County Council is inviting the public to attend a drop-in information event on Thursday, 12 February, from 4pm to 7pm at Longford Library to view and comment on proposed redesign plans for Garvey's Yard, Annaly Car Park and Weaver's Hall entrance.

The proposals form part of the Town Centre First Strategy for Longford Town, launched in 2024, which sets out an ambitious pathway for the revival and revitalisation of the county town through the development of its physical, economic and social infrastructure.

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During consultation on the strategy, residents and visitors highlighted concerns about safety and connectivity in certain parts of the town. In response, the council has secured funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme Project Development Measure to appoint urban design consultants Cunnane Stratton Reynolds to redesign these key pedestrian routes.

The plans aim to improve connectivity between backland car parks and the town centre, enhance the sense of place, and create spaces where people feel safe and comfortable. The redesign of Garvey's Yard—a lane connecting Main Street to Annaly car park—will address longstanding issues with anti-social behaviour. The Weaver's Hall entrance to Ballymahon Street car park will be transformed to prioritise pedestrian experience in what is currently a dark and uninviting passageway.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "These areas in Longford Town have been neglected for too long. When people don't feel safe walking through their own streets, something fundamental is broken. This redesign is about reclaiming these spaces for the community—making them welcoming, accessible, and fit for purpose. I encourage everyone to come along on Thursday and make their voice heard."

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Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "A thriving town centre depends on connectivity—not just physical routes, but the confidence people have in using them. These proposals directly respond to what residents told us: they want safe, attractive pedestrian routes that encourage footfall and support local business. By improving the public realm in Garvey's Yard and Weaver's Hall, we're not simply upgrading infrastructure—we're investing in the social fabric of Longford Town."

The drop-in event is informal and open to all. No appointment is necessary.

Funded by the local democracy reporting scheme