This annual event, organised by Laois County Council, brought together representatives from community groups across the county, all driven by a shared commitment to sustainability, heritage, and environmental care. The awards, judged over the summer by six dedicated members of the Laois Federation of Tidy Towns Committee, highlighted outstanding projects in ten categories, reflecting Laois’ vibrant and engaged community spirit.
The judging process was particularly challenging this year, with fifteen high-quality entries showcasing significant efforts to enhance community aesthetics, protect biodiversity, and preserve cultural heritage. Each entry demonstrated exceptional standards, illustrating the passion, hard work, and creativity of each town and village involved.
This year’s winner of the Best Streetscape Award was Ballacolla, recognised for its eye-catching floral displays, the addition of a new community notice board, and eco-friendly grass verges designed to support pollinator populations. The judges commended Ballacolla’s thoughtful approach, noting that the town’s efforts in promoting biodiversity have created a visually stunning, and ecologically responsible streetscape.
In the Best Landscaping category, Clonaslee was awarded for its impressive landscaping along the town’s approach roads, featuring meticulously maintained stone walls lining the river and lush areas near Brittas Woods. These features contribute to Clonaslee’s charm while preserving the town’s natural and historical elements, embodying a deep respect for both nature and heritage.
Durrow received the Best Floral Display award, celebrating its vibrant, year-round floral arrangements that have been a hallmark of the town since its participation in Tidy Towns began in 1966. The colourful displays in Durrow have become emblematic of the town’s commitment to beauty and tradition, attracting visitors and boosting local pride.
Mountmellick was celebrated for its unique heritage with the Best Heritage Feature award. Known for its rich historical tapestry, the town showcased the Mountmellick Embroidery Museum and where storytelling brings the area’s heritage to life and transported the judges back to 1847. The judges highlighted Mountmellick’s dedication to sharing its history with the community, ensuring the preservation of its cultural legacy.
The Best Biodiversity Project award went to Portlaoise, commended for a suite of biodiversity initiatives, including the planting of 30,000 native trees and the development of pollinator-friendly spaces. These projects not only beautify Portlaoise but are also critical in supporting local wildlife and promoting environmental education, making Portlaoise a model of modern biodiversity efforts.
Stradbally won the Best Community Involvement Project for its outstanding engagement in projects like "Adopt a Planter," which encourages residents to care for planted areas. The judges praised Stradbally for fostering an inclusive sense of ownership and responsibility, creating a community united in enhancing their shared spaces.
Borris-in-Ossory received the Best Litter Control award for its meticulous litter management efforts and a new mural that visually enriches the town. This category was highly competitive, but Borris-in-Ossory’s dedication to cleanliness and creativity stood out, with judges noting the impact of a cleaner environment on overall community well-being.
Rosenallis, a newcomer to the Tidy Towns initiative, earned the Best Newcomer award for its immediate and impressive impact. The group has focused on restoring old stone walls and engaging residents, creating a strong sense of community pride and renewal. This recognition underscores Rosenallis’s potential to become a lasting contributor to the Tidy Towns community in Laois.
Killeen was awarded Overall Impression Village for its transformative work in turning a former litter black spot into a vibrant, floral haven. Judges remarked on the village’s remarkable journey toward beautification and environmental improvement, which has not only elevated its appearance but also reinforced local pride.
Abbeyleix received the prestigious Overall Impression Town award, a well-deserved accolade following its achievement of being named Ireland’s Tidiest Town for 2023. Abbeyleix has become a beacon of community-driven environmental stewardship, with beautifully maintained streetscapes, an exemplary community garden, and extensive engagement from local volunteers. The town’s achievements have set an inspiring benchmark for other communities across Ireland.
Reflecting on the evening, Environmental Awareness Officer Samantha McLeod shared her admiration for the efforts of each participating group: “Each of our Tidy Towns groups has shown remarkable dedication by transforming their surroundings and building a stronger, greener Laois. The work they’ve done not only enhances the physical beauty of our county but creates lasting value in terms of environmental stewardship and community resilience. They have set an incredible example for others to follow.”
The evening concluded with a special commendation to the Abbeyleix Bog Project, which recently won the Climate Action and Biodiversity Category at the IPB Pride of Place community awards. This prestigious award recognises Abbeyleix Bog’s contribution to biodiversity conservation and community engagement, positioning it as an important environmental landmark in Laois.
Laois County Council extended its heartfelt thanks to all participants and is looking forward to another year of inspiring, community-led achievements in environmental care and community engagement.