The five Wicklow finalists in the IPB Pride of Place 2026 Competition recently presented to the visiting judges. The Social Development (Housing & Community) Directorate of Wicklow County Council nominated the entries to represent the county.
The much-loved annual all-island competition, run in collaboration with local authorities and delivered in partnership with Co-Operation Ireland, shines a spotlight on the incredible work happening in communities across Ireland. It celebrates the people who roll up their sleeves, work together, and make their local communities vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring places to live.
Made in Wicklow was nominated in the Creative Communities category, while the village of Enniskerry received a nomination in the Population 2,000-5,000 category. County Wicklow Partnership's “Care & Repair Helping Hands Scheme” was shortlisted under the Age Friendly Communities Category. At the same time, Plot to Plate Sustainable Greystones earned a nomination in the Urban Neighbourhoods & Housing Estates category. Completing the county's strong representation, The Murrough Pump Track was nominated in the Community Youth Initiative category.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Dr. Caroline Winstanley, attended the presentations during the judges’ visit to Wicklow and offered her congratulations to the five nominated projects, stating: "These inspiring projects and community groups have demonstrated how volunteering can make a meaningful difference and serve as a powerful catalyst for positive change and development within local communities across the county."
Michael Nicholson, Director of Services, Social Development (Housing & Community), Wicklow County Council, added his congratulations and expressed the hope that Wicklow would excel in the ‘Pride of Place’ competition. He thanked IPB Insurance and Co-Operation Ireland for their ongoing support for the annual competition. He added: “These groups can already be considered winners for the remarkable impact they have made through their dedication and service to their local communities.”
Judging of the projects took place on 19th, 20th and 21st August. Over the three days, the two judges visited the participating towns. They attended all five presentations, where residents, community groups and local committees proudly showcased the outstanding work being carried out in their communities. The participants demonstrated great dedication, effort and civic pride as they highlighted the projects and initiatives that make their areas unique.
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Friday, 24th of October, in the National Convention Centre, Dublin. The competition is run by Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurance Company (IPBMI), in association with Co-operation Ireland.