Blessington nominated for national award
BLESSINGTON has been nominated as County Wicklow’s representative for the Bank of Ireland National Enterprising Town Awards in the 3,001 to 7,000 population category.
Baltinglass Municipal District, in close conjunction with Blessington and District Forum, was the lead group in formulating the town’s application.
Although the initial submission was restricted to 300 words, the group used these words wisely to portray Blessington in a positive light and focus on the tourism, retail, hospitality and other industries which are a key component of the town as well as outlining its achievements and plans for the future.
The submission also referenced the many and varied facilities, clubs and organisations which are thriving in Blessington and which clearly demonstrate the strong level of volunteerism in the town.
One of the key features of the Blessington and District Forum, which represents all sectors of the community, is the close collaboration between the Municipal District, business community and voluntary groups on initiatives such as the Bank of Ireland Enterprise Town Expo, ‘Paint the Town Red’ promotion (in line with the Punchestown Festival), the Christmas lights display and the windowbox scheme to brighten up Blessington. The forum has focussed on developing its community to ensure that Blessington is a vibrant hub for residents, business and recreation.
Cllr Vincent Blake, Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District, has acknowledged the hard work of the committee and said the nomination was great for the west Wicklow town.
‘It is a great honour for the people of Blessington to be chosen to represent County Wicklow on a national stage and it is important that the community now work together to promote the town of Blessington,’ said Cllr Blake.
The next stage of the competition will see three judges visit Blessington before October 13, during which they will meet with the organising committee, receive a presentation highlighting the positive attributes of the area, visit local businesses or other initiatives that the committee wish to demonstrate and meet with members of the local community.
There is a significant prize fund attached to the competition, along with the accolade of being successful in a competition on a national basis.