Dundalk in IBAL’s top ten clean towns
DUNDALK made its best ever showing in the annual IBAL Anti Litter League, featuring in the top ten cleanest towns in Ireland.
The town jumped 19 places from its position in league at the end of last year (29th) proving that considerable effort has gone in to improving the town centre over the last year.
The results of judging over the last year saw the town placed joint 9th with Kilkenny, and also achieving a ‘Cleaner Than European Norms’ title.
The judges report for 2018 revealed a much improved town centre.
‘An excellent showing for Dundalk, improving on earlier in 2018. Some top ranking deserve a special mention – Court House Square was excellent in terms of presentation and paving,’ according to the IBAL judging panel.
‘ The wide paving on Clanbrassil Street creates a great sense of space and the overall presentation of the streetscape was good.’
The panel did highlight there were some other areas of the town which did warrant further attention.
‘Dundalk Institute of Technology continues to suffer from heavy levels of cigarette butts; the ‘Bring Centre’ by the Fire Station just missed getting the top litter grade – with a little extra care and attention this could easily be achieved.’
Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton,
Minister Bruton said, ‘Combating litter is part of a much wider challenge – how we use our resources effectively and adapt to recognise environmental damage more generally. Litter is a very tangible, visible example of the kind of damage that is being done. It is vital that communities, businesses and local authorities in towns all across Ireland, work together to manage waste properly and reduce litter. I hope the recognition these awards provide spur others on to come together to make changes in their local areas.’