Town plan for Mountrath is on view until the end of November

PLANS for the future of Mountrath are on display until Friday 29 November in Bloom HQ.

For the past six months, Mountrath Town Team has been working with Joseph Mackey Architects to develop proposals which specifically examine how the Whitehorse river can contribute to the regeneration of the town centre.

Mountrath has a rich history dating back to the early 17th century, when it was founded by the Coote family. The location on the Whitehorse river allowed the town to become an industrial hub with extensive linen and cotton weaving traditions. The project endeavours to reimagine this historical location with a modern-day interpretation.

The proposals on display are based on consultations with community stakeholders and highlight the concepts by the firm of architects to regenerate Mountrath in line with the government’s Town Centre First policy. It is anticipated that they will support the Town Team in revitalising the town centre.

This project was funded by the Irish Architect Foundation as part of their Re-Imagine programme.

The plans and proposals centre on four projects:

1) The installation of railings on Patrick Street bridge wall to expand the eyeline of the river 2) A covered walkway arch over the laneway from Main Street to the Whitehorse river 3) A pitched roof over the town square in the same footprint of the old Market Building, linking the town community space to the river 4) A suggested development of a nature reserve wetland/amenity in the town park land.

Mountrath Town Team chairperson Mark Sheeran said: “This project has provided an opportunity for the Mountrath Town Team to engage with an architect and create a connection between the town and one of its most important amenities, the Whitehorse river.” Architect Joseph Mackey said: “The site of the river was used as an opportunity to explore and remember important cultural histories and social practices and to see how the town could reconnect artistically with the river.’’ Laois County Council’s town regeneration officer Denise Rainey said: “The exhibition at Bloom HQ is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to view the research and recommendations envisaged for Mountrath.” The exhibition is open to the public in Bloom HQ from 9am to 5pm each day until Friday 29 November, with smaller-scale drawings also available to view in Mountrath Public Library and in St Fintan’s Church.

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