Prideofplace
To provide a coastal link between the Fane river, south of Blackrock and the Navvy Bank in Dundalk is on the wish list of the community in Blackrock as it continues its work to secure Blackrock as a top place to visit, live and work in.
Along with Dundalk and Dunleer, it was shortlisted for a prestigious Bank of Ireland National Enterprise Town Award 2018.
A special effort was made by the community to showcase what makes Blackrock special to the three judges they visited in August.
This Thursday the winners will be announced at the national ceremony but whatever the outcome, according to Larry Magnier of Blackrock Tidy Towns, ‘The voluntary, sporting and business sectors in Blackrock have a already received a huge benefit in being afforded the opportunity to come together to showcase the village and the community.’
They have all worked together to develop the village for the benefit of both local residents and visitors.
He said, ‘having this effort recognised by being nominated for an Enterprise Town Award is a huge honour. Everybody is extremely proud of the fact that Blackrock was recognised in this way and are anxiously awaiting the results of the competition.’
He said that to win an award, ‘would be a huge boost to all sectors as well as the general community here, and would vindicate the approach we have been taking to make Blackrock a top location to live in, to do business in, and to visit.’
They told the judges, ‘we are continually trying to improve Blackrock as a place to live and also as a place to visit, with a sensible balance between both.’
‘We all agree that a major boost for the village would be a coastal walkway/cycleway/greenway linking the Navvy Bank in Dundalk to the River Fane south of Blackrock.’
Mr Magnier said that, ‘any prize we might be awarded would be used to progress this vision.’
Whatever the outcome, he hopes the Judges, ‘ saw how we all work together from our very different perspectives - voluntary, sporting and business - for the benefit of Blackrock as a whole. And of course we hope that they enjoyed their short time in one of the most beautiful locations in the north-east.’
Thomas McEvoy, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office, Louth said the enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit of the business community is very evident and the Local Enterprise Office are always ready to help and assist providing a range of supports including training, mentoring and grant aid. This competition will raise awareness of the impact the business community has on the local economy and the local community.
Paula Harmon, Bank of Ireland, Head of County Louth said, ‘ SMEs, Startups and community organisations are the backbone of the local economy and a significant driver of the country’s success and spirit.’
‘Local business owners and community groups want to see their town doing well, and there is nothing like a bit of healthy competition to motivate people to put their best foot forward. I am excited to see some really strong entries from Louth and know they will do the entire county proud.’