Dozens of Kilkenny Tidy Towns groups set to share funding boost
The allocations include €4,000 for Kilkenny City, with €2,000 each for Ballyragget, Callan, Castlecomer, Gowran, Graignamanagh, Mooncoin, Piltown and Thomastown. A further €1,000 has been allocated to Bennettsbridge, Clogh, Coan, Dungarvan, Dunnamaggin, Freshford, Gathabawn, Glenmore, Inistioge, Johnstown, Kells, Kilmoganny, Listerlin, Moneenroe, Owning, Paulstown, Stoneyford Ennisnag, Tullahought and Windgap
Funding of €39,000 has been allocated for 28 TidyTowns groups across County Kilkenny, following the announcement by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary.
The funding will support local groups in their ongoing efforts to improve towns and villages, enhance public spaces, protect biodiversity and make communities across Kilkenny better places to live, work and visit.
Carlow-Kilkenny TD and Leas Ceann Comhairle John McGuinness has welcomed the allocation, saying it was a welcome recognition of the work undertaken by volunteers throughout the county.
“TidyTowns volunteers make an enormous contribution to communities across Kilkenny. They give their time, energy and expertise throughout the year, often without seeking recognition, to improve their local areas and create a stronger sense of community pride,” he said.
“This funding will help these groups continue their excellent work and prepare for the 2027 SuperValu TidyTowns Competition. It will also support projects that promote sustainability and biodiversity, which are increasingly important to the future of our towns and villages.
“From Kilkenny City to our smaller towns and rural communities, TidyTowns groups play a vital role in making our county an attractive place to live and a welcoming destination for visitors.”
Funding across County Kilkenny
The allocations include €4,000 for Kilkenny City, with €2,000 each for Ballyragget, Callan, Castlecomer, Gowran, Graignamanagh, Mooncoin, Piltown and Thomastown.
A further €1,000 has been allocated to each of the following groups: Bennettsbridge, Clogh, Coan, Dungarvan, Dunnamaggin, Freshford, Gathabawn, Glenmore, Inistioge, Johnstown, Kells, Kilmoganny, Listerlin, Moneenroe, Owning, Paulstown, Stoneyford Ennisnag, Tullahought and Windgap.
“Every one of these groups deserves credit for the work they undertake. The projects may differ from one community to another, but the commitment is the same — improving the local environment, maintaining public spaces and ensuring that people can take pride in where they live,” said Deputy McGuinness.
“For smaller communities in particular, the dedication of a relatively small number of volunteers can make a tremendous difference. Providing financial support helps these groups turn their ideas into practical improvements that benefit the wider community.
“I want to congratulate all the TidyTowns volunteers across Kilkenny and acknowledge the positive contribution they make to our county.”
Investment in sustainability and biodiversity
Under the national funding announcement, TidyTowns groups that entered the competition in 2024, 2025 or 2026 are eligible to apply for grants ranging from €1,000 to €4,000. The funding is intended to assist with preparations for the 2027 competition and can also be used for projects with a sustainability and biodiversity focus.
The €1.5 million national allocation brings the total amount provided to TidyTowns groups since 2017 to €14 million. The 2026 SuperValu TidyTowns Competition attracted 936 entries, with more than 30,000 volunteers contributing to the initiative nationwide.
Deputy McGuinness concluded: “Investment in our communities delivers lasting benefits. The work of TidyTowns groups helps protect our natural environment, improve the appearance of our towns and villages and strengthen community spirit.
“I welcome this funding for Kilkenny and encourage our local groups to build on the excellent work already being done throughout the county.”