Rural development plan will breathe life into market towns

THE forthcoming government action plan for rural development under which house buyers are to be offered renovation grants to restore properties in small towns and villages as part of the government's long-promised plan to revive rural Ireland has been welcomed by Fine Gael Senator Michelle Mulherin.

Senator Mulherin has asked Minister Humphreys to include Swinford as a pilot project town for the action plan.

She commented: “I think the town would be an ideal case to implement a pilot project and develop a worthwhile scheme for all rural market towns.

'I hope that this plan will breathe life into rural towns in need of a leg-up. I think of towns like Swinford in Mayo need to see a change in government policy to assist their growth and development. This action plan is an opportunity to put life back into dilapidated market towns throughout Mayo and the country.”

She added: “Compared to a number of years ago when these towns were thriving, there are now very few people actually living in town centres. By redeveloping the heart of these towns, we can help solve the housing problem therefore increasing footfall and revitalising local business.”