Dundalk Chamber, in collaboration with Louth County Council, hosted a highly successful information session at McGeough’s Bar & Restaurant, drawing a crowd of over 80 local business owners, property owners, and community members.

The event focused on the Living City Initiative alongside a comprehensive suite of financial supports designed to rejuvenate the commercial and residential properties.

Chaired by Chamber Vice President Joanne Lavelle, an expert panel addressed specific scenarios and took extensive questions from the floor. The panel featured key representatives from Louth County Council including Turlough King (Senior Planner), Annemarie Waters (Vacant Housing Officer), Nikki Campbell (Head of Local Enterprise Office Louth), and Olivia McCormack (Economic Development).

The session provided deep insights into several critical grant and scheme options, including:

  •  The Living City Initiative
  •  Vacant Property Refurbishment Grants
  •  Above the Shop Grants
  •  Shop Front Improvement Schemes
  •  Rates Waiver Schemes
  •  Heritage Grants

Commenting on the impressive turnout and the importance of the event, John McGahon, CEO of Dundalk Chamber said:

“We had an incredible turnout, which clearly demonstrates the appetite within Dundalk when it comes to applying for the Living City and other property grants.

Providing our members with direct, insightful access to Louth County Council’s experts on crucial schemes like the Living City Initiative and Vacant Property Refurbishment is exactly what the Chamber is about. The depth of knowledge shared at our event will undoubtedly help our members maximise these grants and improve Dundalk even further.

Dundalk Chamber Vice President Joanne Lavelle said “This was a really important event for our members as we provided a significant opportunity for them to hear directly from Council officials about the best way to apply and utilise the Living City alongside a whole range of other supports.

The Living City directly targets long-term vacancy. By transforming “living-over-the-shop” spaces and older commercial units into vibrant residential and retail hubs, the scheme drives sustainable, compact growth right in the heart of Dundalk

Nikki Campbell, Head of Louth Local Enterprise Office (LEO), emphasised the value of the event, stating: “From a Council and LEO perspective, collaborating with the Chamber on this event was essential.

The Living City Initiative is a mechanism for urban renewal, but its success relies on local property owners and businesses understanding how to access it.

By partnering with the Chamber on this event, we ensured that local business and residents have the direct information, supports, and confidence they need to complete success applications.