Night-Time Economy Action Plan aims to enhance the cultural, economic and social vibrancy of Longford Town after dark
Extensive consultation with stakeholders, community groups, and local businesses
Press Release: Monday, 14 April 2025
A Night-Time Economy Action Plan 2024-2025 for Longford Town aims to enhance and enrich the cultural, economic and social vibrancy of Longford Town after dark. The action plan was recently launched by Longford County Council and is available to download on the council's website.
Following the publication of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce Report, in September 2021, Longford Town was successful in being designated by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media as one of nine pilot towns and cities in the country to prepare and implement an action plan setting out a range of interventions to support the coordinated development of the night-time economy.
The development of the action plan has been informed by research through dedicated business and public surveys, meetings and workshops with key stakeholders, the formation of a night-time economy cross departmental working group within Longford County Council and regular engagement with a dedicated night-time economy stakeholder forum.
Work on the Night-Time Economy Action Plan has been ongoing since the appointment of the designated Night-Time Economy Advisor in April 2024. The plan was developed through extensive consultation and engagement with stakeholders, community groups, and local businesses.
Speaking in relation to the action plan, Karen Reilly, the designated Night-Time Economy Advisor said, "This new action plan marks an exciting time in the development of Longford's after-dark culture and community and economy. Our vision is clear: to establish Longford as a vibrant place at any time of the day. We want to create a welcoming destination where work, culture and community connect and thrive."
The three pillars outlined in the action plan include:
- Cultural Activity: the creation of diverse nightlife options, welcoming spaces for everyone
- Mobility and Transport: advocating for late-night public transport, establishing new services and better accessibility
- Safety and Security: a commitment to making Longford safer at night through improved lighting, surveillance, and community initiatives working closely with LCSP
Speaking in relation to the Night-Time Economy Action Plan 2024-2025 Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon said, "This plan represents a bold step forward in recognising the vital role that a thriving night-time economy plays in supporting local businesses, encouraging cultural expression, and creating an inclusive and safe environment for residents and visitors alike."
Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Mark Casey said, "The Night-Time Economy Action Plan demonstrates Longford County Council's commitment to ensuring that Longford Town is a welcoming destination for evenings and night-time. Stakeholder engagement is key to the success of this action plan, and I look forward to the creation of a vibrant and positive atmosphere where people of all ages can enjoy all that Longford Town has to offer."
Read the full Night-Time Economy Action Plan 2024-2025 for Longford Town in the Policy and Publications section of Longford County Council website.
