Cork County Council has announced that Kanturk will be one of the next 26 towns to benefit from a Town Centre First Plan.

The Council has received funding of €30,000 for the development of the plan as part of the Government's national Town Centre First Policy initiative.

This policy aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction, whilst driving future development as part of a strategy by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O'Flynn said: "I am delighted that Kanturk is set to benefit from this fund. Town Centre First Plans provide the community with an opportunity to shape the future of their town. It can contain proposals for a diverse range of projects such as redeveloping derelict sites, creating community parks and walkways, boosting business and tourism potential and protecting historical landmarks. This has the potential to be truly transformative, paving the way for newly revitalised town centres, thriving communities and economic growth for generations to come."

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Town Centre First supports the objectives of the national rural development policy 'Our Rural Future' in revitalising rural towns and engages communities through "Town Teams". Every town is different, and so local visions take account of these unique challenges, needs and opportunities.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Valerie O'Sullivan said: "Kanturk is the second town in Cork County to benefit from the initiative, with Skibbereen’s ‘Town Centre First Regeneration Plan’ due to be launched shortly following months of extensive public consultation. Cork County Council’s dedicated Town Regeneration Office will now work to assemble a ‘Town Team’ for Kanturk to guide this exciting plan to development process over the coming months. The input of the local community is key to the success of these projects to ensure a shared vision that is unique to each town."

Projects will be chosen for the 'Town and Village Renewal Scheme – Project Development Measures 2024' through a competitive selection process. Cork County Council is permitted to submit two applications, each valued at €50,000, to the Department of Rural and Community Development. The development of these projects must involve collaboration with the Town Regeneration Office of Cork County Council, as well as the local town/village community and business stakeholders.

The Council has also welcomed Expressions of Interest for projects identified by Town Teams and local communities that will assist in regenerating their towns. The deadline for Expression of Interest form is 5.00 pm on 20 March 2024.