Carlow County Council, in collaboration with local retail and hospitality establishments, is proud to launch the "Support Local, Shop Carlow" campaign. This initiative aims to encourage both residents and visitors to support the long-standing businesses on Lower Tullow Street, which have been the backbone of our local economy for generations.
Lower Tullow Street, renowned for its array of family-owned shops and eateries, will be pedestrianised every Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM throughout August and September. This transformation will create a bustling hub for outdoor dining, leisurely shopping, and vibrant hospitality. Lower Tullow Street has played a pivotal role in the history and development of Carlow town and county since 1824.
Building on the success of the recently delivered Streetfest programme, this initiative not only seeks to enhance the shopping experience but also to highlight the economic importance of supporting local enterprises. The businesses on Lower Tullow Street, many of which have served the community for decades, collectively support hundreds of local jobs, contributing significantly to the town's economic stability and growth.
Cllr. Fintan Phelan, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District, emphasised the importance of community support in these efforts, stating, "Shopping local isn't just about convenience; it's about sustaining our community and preserving the unique character of Carlow Town. By supporting our local businesses on Lower Tullow Street, we are investing in the future of our town and ensuring that these cherished establishments can continue to thrive for generations to come."
Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, highlighted the benefits of the pedestrianisation initiative: "Transforming Lower Tullow Street into a pedestrian-friendly zone every Saturday is a fantastic opportunity for families and individuals to enjoy a relaxed shopping and dining experience. This initiative makes our town centre more accessible and inviting, encouraging people to explore and support local businesses."
Linda Culleton, Economic Development Officer with Carlow County Council, who is coordinating the Streetfest project and pedestrianisation pilot, added, "Local businesses are the lifeblood of Carlow's economy. Every euro spent locally generates a ripple effect, supporting not just the business owner, but their employees, suppliers, and the broader community. By shopping on Lower Tullow Street, residents are directly contributing to the economic health and vibrancy of Carlow Town."
In addition to the pedestrian-friendly Saturdays, Carlow Town offers over 2,000 parking spaces, making it convenient for everyone to visit and enjoy the local shops and restaurants. The combination of ample parking and a walkable, enjoyable shopping district aims to attract more visitors and residents to the heart of Carlow.
Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development with Carlow County Council, spoke about the importance of investment in the Town Centre, stating, “Sustainable enterprises are a key part of the development of the town centre. This, coupled with investments like The Exchange, upcoming URDF investment, active travel projects, and signage upgrades, collectively have a catalytic effect on the Town Centre. This creates a regeneration effect fuelled by the inputs from consumers, businesses, local government, and the state.”