Deal struck for design of multi-million Euro regeneration project in Carlingford

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

As Louth’s top tourism hotspot boasting “unique medieval charm” Carlingford is set for a new chapter with the ink just dry on a design contract for the multi-million euro project.

Louth County Council confirmed it has signed a €557,575 deal with Urban Agency to deliver integrated design services for the ‘Living in Carlingford - Visiting Carlingford’ regeneration project.

The ambitious scheme will focus on enhancing key areas of Carlingford’s townscape, including the open spaces at the waterfront and harbour, Market Square and connecting streets.

The initiative, jointly funded by the council and the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), aims to revitalise Carlingford’s public spaces while preserving its medieval charm and rich heritage.

Urban Agency will lead the heritage-led design process, which, the council has said “will include extensive stakeholder engagement.”

Planning permission for the project was granted under Part 8 in 2023, clearing the way for this transformative initiative to proceed.

Speaking about the project, Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “This regeneration project marks a new chapter for Carlingford and will honour the town’s unique identity while creating spaces that serve both residents and visitors. We’re proud to be investing in Carlingford’s future.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “Urban Agency is an award-winning architecture firm with a broad international profile, and with their assistance we believe that the comprehensive rethinking and redesign of the main public spaces will have the potential to transform the quality and movement in Carlingford’s unique townscape.”

Andrew Griffin, Director, Urban Agency, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Louth County Council and the people of Carlingford on this important project. It is a fantastic opportunity to reimagine the town’s public realm and to help make Carlingford an even more welcoming and vibrant place for both residents and visitors.”

Local TD, Erin McGreehan welcomed advances in the planned project, saying: “This is most definitely an investment in the future of Carlingford, and I warmly welcome the appointment of Urban Agency to deliver the ambitious ‘Living in Carlingford - Visiting Carlingford’ vision.”

She added: “Their appointment is fantastic news. The project is hugely ambitious, and it deserves a partner with the same ambition and expertise to bring it to life.”

Deputy McGreehan said she is “looking forward to the works getting underway and when the time comes, seeing the finished product.”

“I am very eager to see this project progress. Carlingford is a place of great national appeal, a tourism hotspot with a unique medieval charm. This regeneration will ensure that its heritage is preserved while the town is revitalised for the future.”