Councillor Calls For Painting Scheme To Enhance Towns And Villages

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A KERRY County Councillor  has called for the rollout of a painting scheme across all towns and villages throughout County Kerry.

Councillor Michael Cahill raised the matter at a recent Municipal District meeting where he said a competition could be organised with prizes given to the top artists.

“The introduction of such a Scheme with a different theme for each town and village will greatly enhance the visual impact of our towns and villages, help get rid of the look of dereliction on many of our streets and encourage visitors to ‘Stop, Shop, Stay and Spend’,” said the Fianna Fáil councillor.

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“We have seen the benefits of the beautiful murals in Killorglin and we are now already beginning to see the success of the Town and Village Renewal Painting Scheme in the town, particularly in Upper Bridge Street and in the Town Centre.

“I believe there is huge potential here to bring life back to many of the streets in our towns and villages and the rolling out of such a Scheme will boost tourism numbers and make our towns and villages more attractive for locals and tourists alike” he added.

In reply to the motion, Council Management said it has worked with individual communities to secure funding under the Town & Village Renewal scheme and other grants for painting schemes.

The work involves full consultation with the local community on all aspects of the scheme including the colour scheme, liaison with paint companies, agreeing and securing a financial contribution from the business and residential owners and operational matters such as insurance requirements, scaffolding and street closures if necessary.

Projects are subject to procurement guidelines. A review of current work will be undertaken which will contribute to future planning. All potential schemes will be dependant on the level of discretionary funding available in the 2021 budget.