Wicklow Town is one of eight towns in Ireland to benefit from funding under The Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative (HTI) to develop a heritage led regeneration plan, following a recent announcement by Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government, James Browne T.D., and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan T.D.

The HTI seeks to strengthen the vibrancy of towns and villages by placing heritage assets at the forefront, protecting local character and distinctiveness, and making our towns more climate resilient by encouraging reuse of historic buildings and green infrastructure.

The successful application for Wicklow Town was submitted by Wicklow County Council in partnership with Wicklow Town Team and proposes the development of a Heritage Led Regeneration Plan for the town.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District, Cllr. Graham Richmond welcomed the announcement, stating, “The Historic Towns Initiative aims to promote vibrant, viable, and attractive town centres that serve as hubs for living, working, and visiting, while also functioning as social, cultural, and recreational centres for the community. The development of a Heritage-led regeneration Plan is a wonderful opportunity for Wicklow Town.”

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman commented, “Wicklow County Council is pleased to have secured funding under the Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative, and we are delighted to work in partnership with Wicklow Town Team and local businesses and residents to maximise on the opportunities offered by Wicklow’s built, natural and cultural heritage assets”.

Myra Porter, Chair of Wicklow Town Team said, “The development of this Plan is an exciting opportunity for Wicklow. The Town Team looks forward to working collaboratively with the Council, local businesses and residents in the coming months on a shared vision for improving the town as a place to live, work, shop, play and visit.”