- A vision for Portlaoise
- Compact urban regeneration
- Key themes and projects
- Communications and engagement
- Greening of Portlaoise
- Active travel and sustainability
- Decarbonization pathways and circular economy
2040 and beyond: A vision for Portlaoise
The Ireland 2040 Plan identified Portlaoise as a national demonstration project for implementing sustainable and community-driven urban renewal.
John Mulholland, former Chief Executive of Laois County Council, guided us through the progress of the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town initiative. The results of this transformation are clearly visible in the town’s streetscapes, facilities, services, and the collective actions of the community. A video featuring John Mulholland provides further insights into the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town Project, highlighting its ongoing impact and future potential.
In 2017, Laois County Council engaged with the community in Portlaoise to formulate "2040 and Beyond: A Vision for Portlaoise." This vision re-examines and re-purposes the town centre, proposing improvements such as:
- Reconfiguration of traffic flows through the town centre to reduce congestion.
- Rebalancing the existing circa 3,600 car parking spaces.
- Greening of the town centre.
- Reduction in dereliction by repurposing existing buildings.
- Supporting more active travel through walking and cycling.
- Providing a better-quality environment for leisure and social uses.
- Reducing the impacts of car use on the public realm.
Compact urban regeneration
Portlaoise Low Carbon Town recognizes the benefits of refurbishing and repurposing derelict buildings, which include reducing embedded carbon emissions and preventing urban sprawl, known as the "doughnut effect." This approach supports the development of a compact, vibrant urban core, essential for a walkable and cyclable town centre. By revitalizing existing structures, Portlaoise minimizes the environmental impact of new construction and enhances the quality of life. This strategy promotes sustainable urban living, reduces reliance on cars, and fosters a strong sense of community, aligning with the town’s broader sustainability goals.
Notable projects include:
Construction of a new library on Main Street | |
| The new Portlaoise Library is a state-of-the-art facility designed to serve as a vibrant community hub, offering a wide range of services and resources. Located in the heart of Portlaoise, the modern library features spacious reading areas, dedicated zones for children and teens, and technology-rich spaces for learning and collaboration. It also hosts cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions, fostering a deeper connection with the arts and local heritage. With a focus on accessibility and sustainability, the library is a key asset for promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement in the region. |
Refurbishment of the old convent on Church Avenue for elderly homes | |
| The refurbishment of the old convent on Church Avenue is transforming the historic building into modern homes for the elderly, blending heritage preservation with contemporary living. This project aims to provide comfortable, secure housing for senior residents while maintaining the architectural character of the convent, a valued part of the local community's history. The development includes accessible living spaces, communal areas, and landscaped gardens, ensuring a supportive and vibrant environment for its residents. By repurposing the convent, the project addresses the growing demand for elderly housing while honouring the building’s cultural significance. |
Transformation of a building at Tower Hill into a low carbon innovation hub, known as The Cube | |
| The transformation of a building at Tower Hill into "The Cube," a low-carbon innovation hub, represents a forward-thinking initiative aimed at fostering sustainability and entrepreneurship. The Cube will serve as a collaborative workspace for startups, researchers, and businesses focused on green technologies and sustainable practices. Designed with energy efficiency and carbon reduction in mind, the hub will feature cutting-edge facilities powered by renewable energy sources, making it a model of eco-friendly development. This project not only supports innovation in the low-carbon sector but also positions the region as a leader in climate action and sustainable economic growth. | 
|
Provision of new homes on the derelict Maltings Site | |
| The provision of new homes on the derelict Maltings Site marks a significant redevelopment effort aimed at revitalizing a long-abandoned area. This project will transform the former industrial site into a vibrant residential community, offering modern, energy-efficient homes that address the growing demand for housing in Portlaoise. By repurposing the Maltings Site, the development not only provides much-needed housing but also enhances the surrounding neighbourhood by removing blight and contributing to urban renewal. The project reflects a commitment to sustainable living and responsible land use, breathing new life into a once-neglected space. |
Development of homes and commuter facilities near Portlaoise railway station | |
| The development of homes and commuter facilities near Portlaoise railway station is a strategic project aimed at enhancing both housing availability and transport connectivity in the area. This mixed-use development will provide modern, high-quality homes alongside convenient amenities for commuters, including parking, bike storage, and improved access to public transportation. By integrating residential and transport infrastructure, the project encourages sustainable living and reduces car dependency, making it easier for residents to commute efficiently while supporting a low-carbon lifestyle. Positioned close to the town centre and rail links, the development is set to boost local economy and promote smarter, greener urban growth. | 
|
Design of new apartments on the former County Hotel site | |
| The design of new apartments on the former County Hotel site aims to transform this prominent location into a modern residential complex, blending contemporary architecture with the historic character of the area. The development will offer a mix of high-quality, energy-efficient apartments, catering to a range of housing needs while revitalizing the site of the once iconic hotel. The project focuses on maximizing urban space, incorporating green areas, and providing amenities that enhance community living. By repurposing the former hotel site, this development contributes to the ongoing regeneration of the town and provides a fresh, vibrant space for future residents. |
Reimagining the old Fort Protector site for music tuition and outdoor festivals | |
| Reimagining the old Fort Protector site for music tuition and outdoor festivals in Portlaoise is a visionary project aimed at transforming a historic landmark into a dynamic cultural hub. This redevelopment will feature dedicated spaces for music education, offering state-of-the-art facilities for students and aspiring musicians, alongside versatile outdoor areas designed to host vibrant festivals and community events. By revitalizing the Fort Protector site, the project not only preserves its historical significance but also enriches the local cultural landscape, fostering creativity and community engagement through music and the arts. | 
|
Key themes and projects
Communications and Engagement
We have developed several groups and initiatives to inform and progress the Portlaoise low carbon town project.
Portlaoise town team
The Portlaoise town team has been in existence since 2017. The Town Team draws its membership from local business, traders and retailers. The team meets regular to discuss and inform on updates from different stakeholders and council departments.
Low carbon town implementation group
A Low carbon town implementation group was established in 2019 involving stakeholders from the sphere of academia, energy generation, the health service, retail, and transport. The group is serviced by Laois County Council and its aim is to work with the community in implementing energy efficiency and carbon reduction measures at all levels of urban living.
SISEC Course
We were proud to host and implement pioneering course called Systems Innovation for Sustainable Enterprise and Communities (SISEC). Participants came from a wide range of organisations and businesses. The course aimed to equip communities with the skills needed to tackle climate change challenges.
The Ireland’s Knowledge Centre for Carbon, Climate, and Community Action (IKC3), in partnership with Laois County Council, has conducted a pilot course focusing on the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town Project.
The course, delivered over a period of three months, focused on empowering local participants as challenge owners with the skills and knowledge necessary to address sustainability challenges within their communities. Participants engaged actively and collaboratively, applying systems thinking to tackle issues surrounding climate change on a local scale.
Greener Together Newsletter
Our monthly *"Greener Together"* newsletter offers a comprehensive overview of the latest sustainability initiatives taking place, providing updates on various environmental projects and achievements within the community. It highlights partner organizations that are making significant strides in sustainability, offering insights into their contributions and showcasing their innovative efforts. The newsletter also features Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, promoting how businesses are engaging in green practices and supporting environmental causes. The Greener Together past editions and subscription service are available here.
More from John Mulholland, Chief Executive on the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town Project. John Mulholland, Chief Executive illuminates the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town Project
Our "Greener Together" newsletter featuring sustainability updates, partner organization showcases, CSR activities, and training opportunities.
Greening of Portlaoise
The "Town in a Garden" initiative is part of the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town (PLCT) project, aiming to blend nature into urban life while promoting sustainability.
Key actions include planting 300,000 pollinator-friendly bulbs, 35,000 native trees, and creating urban orchards and meadows.
The initiative enhances public spaces with green infrastructure, supports biodiversity, and improves climate resilience through better flood management and heat mitigation.
Community involvement, educational efforts, and local partnerships are central to the plan.
Overall, it enhances environmental quality, community well-being, and economic value, serving as a model for sustainable urban development.
Active travel and sustainable mobility
Active travel routes: construction of cycle lanes.
Mobility hub: Creating a new hub at the Portlaoise Railway station commuter carpark.
Cycle learning zone: Establishing a learning zone in People’s Park.
Installation of bike stands and repair stations.
EV charge points: Installing 20 electric vehicle chargers.
Triogue Way: Developing a greenway to support active travel.
Decarbonisation pathways and circular economy
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, Portlaoise has been actively pursuing decarbonization pathways and embracing the circular economy.
- Key initiatives include carbon footprint studies conducted by Siemens in 2020 and KPMG in 2023, with an Energy Master Plan scheduled for 2024 by KRA.
- The establishment of The CUBE, a low-carbon centre of excellence, further promotes the development of eco-friendly technologies.
- Additionally, the council has retrofitted 2,500 streetlights with LED lighting and increased the number of solar-powered compactor litter bins from 30 to 50.
