Athlone renewal project up for debate this evening

The potential impact of a renewal project for the centre of Athlone will be discussed at a special meeting hosted by Athlone Chamber of Commerce and Industry this evening (Thursday).

The event, in the Sheraton Athlone Hotel, at 7pm, will be addressed by David Fitzsimons CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland, who will speak about town renewal projects throughout the country – giving practical tips and advice and sharing experiences of other towns who have undergone renewal projects.

A spokesperson for Athlone Chamber of Commerce said: 'To realise our town’s potential it is crucial for the stakeholders in Athlone to come together and work in collaboration.

'We need to establish a collaborative approach between local businesses, the local authority, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, business associations and the many other stakeholders who have an interest in the wellbeing of Athlone.'

Padraig Sugrue MD of the Hodson Bay Group will also make a presentation about the Destination Athlone initiative, designed to promote Athlone as a visitor destination, while Pat Keating, District Manager, Athlone Municipal District, will give a presentation on some of the council’s plans for the town.

The initiative comes in the wake of a presentation on the Destination Athlone project at the chamber’s AGM.