Westmeath County Council (WCC) Our Services

Town Centre First

Town Centre First logo

The Town Centre First policy is an Irish government initiative aimed at revitalising rural towns and villages by encouraging sustainable development, reducing vacancy, and supporting local economies.

Launched in 2022, the policy prioritises regenerating town centers by repurposing vacant buildings, improving public spaces, and promoting local businesses.

Summary of Town Centre First Policy Aims

The Town Centre First policy is designed to revitalise rural towns and villages by encouraging sustainable development, reducing vacancy, and supporting local communities.

It's key aims include:

Tackling Vacancy & Dereliction – Repurposing vacant and underused buildings to increase housing and commercial activity in town centers.
Supporting Town-Centre Living – Encouraging people to live and work in town centers by making them more attractive, accessible, and vibrant.
Boosting Local Economies – Supporting small businesses, improving retail opportunities, and enhancing job creation in rural areas.
Enhancing Public Spaces – Investing in infrastructure, green spaces, and community amenities to create more livable and welcoming town centers.
Empowering Local Communities – Providing funding and support for Town Centre First Plans, developed by local authorities with community input.
Sustainable & Inclusive Growth – Ensuring environmentally friendly development while promoting social inclusion and cultural heritage.
Strengthening Local Governance – Appointing a Town Regeneration Officer in each local authority to lead regeneration efforts.

By prioritising town centers as hubs for living, business, and social activity, the Town Centre First policy aims to create thriving, resilient, and sustainable rural communities for future generations.

Events planned for the formation of Town Teams

Westmeath County Council is inviting members of the public, residents and businesses, sporting, community and voluntary groups, local schools, and property owners to get involved in the preparation and formation programme for the establishment of a Kilbeggan & Kinnegad Town Team.

Town Centre First is holding an open public sessions, and we encourage all to join us on the dates listed below.

Follow the link below to download the Press release, Town Team meeting dates and Walkability schedules for Kilbeggan, Kinnegad, Rochfortbridge and Castlepollard.