Rathkeale Town Centre First plan to revitalise the Limerick town

Officials and members of Rathkeale Community Council/Rathkeale Town Team pictured at the launch of the Rathkeale Town Centre First plan. Picture: Keith Wiseman

The community-led Rathkeale Town Centre First plan was officially unveiled to support the revitalisation of the Limerick town

The official launch of the Rathkeale Town Centre First (TCF) Plan sees the Rathkeale Town Team and Limerick City and County Council take an exciting step towards a more vibrant, connected and sustainable future.

The Town Centre First initiative is a key component of the Government’s strategy to support the revitalisation of towns and villages across Ireland, with a focus on locally led, evidence-based planning and collaboration between communities and local authorities.

The Plan harnesses the significant potential of the town and sets out a vision and priority projects which seeks to revitalise Rathkeale town centre. The aim is to strengthen its economy, celebrate its heritage and improve the quality of life for all who live, work and visit Rathkeale both now and for future generations. The Rathkeale Town Centre First Plan was developed in consultation with the local community, local businesses, public bodies and all relevant stakeholders.

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The Plan identifies a number of key projects and actions, identified by the Rathkeale Town Team, which seek to enhance public spaces and streetscapes, creating a more welcoming and accessible town centre; support local enterprise, retail, and tourism development; promote the adaptive reuse of vacant and underused buildings; improve pedestrian and cycling connections; and protect and celebrate Rathkeale’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

The Plan aims to leverage funding opportunities for Rathkeale to realise these projects, utilising existing and future funding streams to deliver on the objectives of the Plan, working collaboratively with the relevant stakeholders.

Speaking at the launch event in Rathkeale, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran welcomed the shared vision for the county town, saying the project is about “unlocking the full potential of Rathkeale by building on its proud heritage and vibrant community spirit”.

He said, “This plan reflects the voices of local people and sets out practical steps to revitalise the town centre, strengthen connections to the Greenway, and create a safer, more inclusive environment for all. Working together, we can turn this vision into reality and ensure Rathkeale thrives for generations to come.”

Cllr Ger Ward, Cathaoirleach of the Adare – Rathkeale Municipal District said the plan marks an important milestone, he said, “Today marks the culmination of a year of dedication and collaboration by the Rathkeale Town Team and the local community. This is more than a plan, it is a shared vision for the revitalisation of the town centre, seeking to create vibrant public spaces, and make Rathkeale an even better place to live, work and visit.”

Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly said the Council is delighted to support the Rathkeale community to achieve their ambitions, saying, “The Rathkeale Town Centre First Plan provides a clear blueprint for revitalising the heart of Rathkeale – repurposing vacant buildings, enhancing public spaces, and creating a more attractive town centre. Continued positive collaboration will turn this vision into reality and bring lasting change to Rathkeale.”

Pat Neville, Chairperson of the Rathkeale Community Council welcomed the plan. He said, “The Rathkeale Town Team and I welcome the launch of the Rathkeale Town Centre First Plan. The Plan was shaped by the community through collaboration and engagement, drawing on the strong community spirit in Rathkeale. This Plan represents the start of a brighter future for Rathkeale.”