Louth County Council has signed a contract with Urban Agency to deliver integrated design services for the ambitious ‘Living in Carlingford – Visiting Carlingford’ regeneration project.
The initiative, jointly funded by the council and the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), aims to revitalise Carlingford’s public spaces while preserving its medieval charm and rich heritage.
Urban Agency, an award-winning architecture firm with a strong international profile, will lead the heritage-led design process, which will include extensive stakeholder engagement.
The project will focus on enhancing key areas of Carlingford’s townscape, including the open spaces at the waterfront and harbour, Market Square and the connecting streets.
It will also incorporate improvements to existing heritage and tourism assets, such as the historic streetscape, medieval walls and buildings, local recreation facilities, tourism accommodation, and the Great Eastern Greenway.
A notable feature of the project is the planned refurbishment of the current library building, formerly the Carlingford Courthouse. As a Protected Structure, the building will be sensitively developed to ensure its continued use while respecting its historical significance.
Planning permission for the project was granted under Part 8 in 2023, clearing the way for this transformative initiative to proceed.
Speaking about the project, Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “This regeneration project marks a new chapter for Carlingford and will honour the town’s unique identity while creating spaces that serve both residents and visitors. We’re proud to be investing in Carlingford’s future.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “Urban Agency is an award-winning architecture firm with a broad international profile and with their assistance, we believe that the comprehensive rethinking and redesign of the main public spaces will have the potential to transform the quality and movement in Carlingford’s unique townscape.”
Andrew Griffin, Director, Urban Agency, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Louth County Council and the people of Carlingford on this important project. It is a fantastic opportunity to reimagine the town’s public realm and to help make Carlingford an even more welcoming and vibrant place for both residents and visitors.”
For more information about Urban Agency, visit www.urban-agency.com
