New slogan for Abbeyleix as major report is launched
Dr Sharon Harris Byrne (SETU) and Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer LCC at the launch of the Abbeyleix Town Centre First Health Check in Heritage House Abbeyleix. Photo: Alf Harvey
A NEW slogan has been announced for Abbeyleix, with the launch of a major report that lays the groundwork for the town’s future.
The slogan ‘Abbeyleix: A Living Heritage Town’ was chosen by the community during a survey process, reflecting the beautiful town’s distinctive character, rich history and forward-looking approach to development.
The tagline was unveiled at the launch of the Abbeyleix Town Centre Health Check Report, at a packed public event in Heritage House on 26 May.
The 120-page report was officially launched by Laois Co Council cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Walsh, who highlighted its importance as a roadmap for regeneration and sustainable development in Abbeyleix. The report sets out an action plan, which is the first step in getting State funding to fulfil the plan’s aims over the next decade.
A comprehensive assessment of the town’s physical, economic and environmental performance, the report was completed by Laois Co Council’s Regeneration Section, in partnership with Abbeyleix Tidy Towns and South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow.
Work on the ‘health check’ began last September, with a series of detailed surveys and research carried out by international business students, led by SETU senior lecturer Dr Sharon Harris-Byrne.
The surveys focused on lifestyle habits, infrastructure, business, travel habits and consumer preferences, which all influence the sustainability of town centres.
The results of the surveys will guide strategies on issues ranging from traffic and parking to consumer choices, retail, land use, accessibility, tourism, vacancy and enterprise.
Heavy traffic, road safety and a shortage of parking spaces emerged as major concerns for businesspeople and residents, with nearly nine in 10 respondents (87.3 per cent) saying there is too much traffic.
An estimated 10,000 vehicles travel through Main Street every day, a higher number than before the town was bypassed, while there is an urgent need for better lighting and footpaths as well as parking.
On the positive side, the town’s overall retail vacancy rate is very low at just over 11 per cent, or four out of 36 premises.
A survey of 24 local businesses found that local demand is what keeps them going and most have an annual turnover of above €50,000.
Most residents shop in the town for groceries, health services, flowers and gifts but travel elsewhere to buy clothing. Some respondents felt that big name stores are needed, such as Aldi, Lidl, Penneys or Marks & Spencer.
Over 90 per cent of residents said it was important to support Abbeyleix businesses, while 91 per cent feel safe in their town.
Laois Co Council’s town regeneration officer Denise Rainey, who led the project, said at the launch: “This is an important occasion for Abbeyleix. The Health Check Report gives us a clear, informed picture of the town and provides a solid foundation for future regeneration. Abbeyleix has a proud heritage and a vibrant community and this work will help guide its sustainable growth and development.
“The strong partnership with Abbeyleix Tidy Towns and local representatives, along with members of the community, has been invaluable throughout this process. We are looking forward to the next steps for Abbeyleix based on the findings of the Health Check report in the future development of the town."
Described in the report as an ‘architectural gem’, Abbeyleix has a long list of awards that include Ireland’s Tidiest Town in 2023, as well as five Bloom Silver Awards and an Outstanding Achievement Award at the 2025 Communities in Bloom International Symposium and Awards in Canada.
The full report is available to read or download at Abbeyleix Health Check Report.pdf.
