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Launch of the Athlone Economic Strategy

The new Economic Strategy for Athlone has been launched by Roscommon and Westmeath County Councils. The Strategy, jointly commissioned by both local authorities and prepared by consultancy firm Grant Thornton, is a blueprint for the economic development of the Midland’s biggest town.

Athlone has been designated as a Regional Growth Centre by the National Planning Framework (NPF) and the Eastern and Midlands Regional Assembly Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy.

The purpose of the Economic Strategy is to inform Westmeath and Roscommon County Council’s preparation of a joint Strategy for the future development of Athlone up to the year 2040.

The ambitious Strategy aims to capitalise on Athlone’s central location by creating a unique destination capable of attracting high quality talent, investors, businesses, and tourists to the town. The Strategy will be overseen by an Implementation Advisory Group being set up specifically to oversee the Economic Strategy for Athlone.

The Strategy will also aim to position Athlone as a vibrant economy that remains environmentally resilient with a strong social fabric, while also remaining a strong, inclusive, accessible local economy, with safe, socially inclusive, and well-connected communities.

The Strategy will also provide a focus on promoting increased employment and enterprise opportunities in Athlone and its hinterland as part of the future development of the Regional Centre.

The Economic Strategy was presented by Mary Grier, Senior Planner, Roscommon County Council and Cathaldus Hartin, Senior Planner, Westmeath County Council. The Strategy identified the economic ambition for Athlone to become a globally successful and smart regional growth centre.

The launch which took place earlier on Tuesday in Athlone Civic Offices was presided by Cllr. Vinny McCormack, Mayor of the Athlone – Moate, Municipal District and Barry Kehoe, Director of Services with Westmeath County Council; Cllr. John Naughten, Cathaoirleach, Athlone Municipal District and Greg O’Donnell, Director of Services of Roscommon County Council.

Also present at the launch were Pat Gallagher, Chief Executive, Westmeath County Council and Shane Tiernan, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council as were councillors and key stakeholders in both Counties.

Speaking at the event, Cllr. McCormack remarked: “I am delighted to see the cooperation of both Councils in commissioning this Strategy which will be a valuable tool in guiding the future development of the regional centre of Athlone over the next 20 years”.

Meanwhile speaking at the conclusion of the event, Cllr. John Naughten, commented: “This strategy has been eagerly awaited and will enable Athlone to further develop its potential as a regional economic centre, a vibrant community, and an attractive place to work and live.”

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Content Last Updated/Reviewed: 21/02/2023