Council confirms completion of Ferbane Town Centre First Plan

Offaly County Council has confirmed the completion of the Ferbane Town Centre First Plan.

Set to be launched at a public meeting on Tuesday, February 17, at 6pm, in The Heritage Centre, the plan, which seeks to revitalise towns across Ireland by focusing on the needs of the local community, has been developed by consultants Brady, Shipman & Martin, in partnership with the Ferbane Town Team and the local authority.

Following the success of Clara’s Town Centre First Plan in 2024, Ferbane was selected as the second town in County Offaly to receive funding under the national Town Centre First programme.

The plan has now been finalised following detailed background research, on-the-ground field studies, stakeholder engagement, and a series of public consultation events and surveys.

The Town Centre First Plan presents a new and ambitious vision for Ferbane, highlighting both the strengths and challenges of the town.

It identifies a range of potential projects that, if delivered, will significantly enhance the quality of life for local residents. These include the regeneration of the Old Convent, improved traffic management around school environs, and introduction of routes and trails in and around the town.

The completed plan represents a long-term, community-driven vision for the future of Ferbane.

Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, Cllr John Leahy, said the completion of the Ferbane Town Centre First Plan marks an important milestone for the town.

"This plan reflects the hard work, local insight and shared ambition of the community, and sets out a clear pathway for delivering meaningful improvements in the years ahead. Offaly County Council is proud to support this collaborative approach to town centre regeneration," the Cathaoirleach said.

Offaly County Councils newly appointed Chief Executive Mr. Eoghan Ryan said the plan demonstrated what can be achieved when local communities, stakeholders, and the local authority work in genuine partnership.

"Ferbane now has a clear and actionable roadmap that will guide investment and development in the years ahead. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this plan will deliver for the town and its people," Mr Ryan said.

Chairperson of Ferbane’s Town Team, Mr. Padraig Boland, said the Plan is a product of the people of Ferbane.

"The Town Team has been honoured to facilitate a process where local voices truly led the way. Realising this vision now requires us to deepen those roots, ensuring that our residents, community activists and enterprises, remain the driving force as we partner with Offaly County Council, and other key partners, to continue the revitalisation of our town and our community," Mr Boland added.

The plan is now available to view on the Offaly County Council website, via the link https://www.offaly.ie/ferbane-town-centre-first-plan/