Positivity for 2026, Carrick-Blayney MD hears

The final formal meeting of the elected members attached to the Carrickmacross–Castleblayney Municipal District (MD) provided an opportunity to reflect on a year of significant progress, investment and collaboration, while also setting a positive outlook for the 12 months ahead.

Before delving into operational detail, Director of Services Cathal Flynn highlighted two major developments which he described as clear positives for the district. The reopening of the Nuremore Hotel & Country Club in Carrickmacross, together with the launch of a 10-year Master Plan for Lough Muckno and its environs, were both welcomed. The latter initiative, led by Monaghan County Council, aims to transform the existing leisure park into a major regional attraction.

Mr Flynn then outlined the tangible investments delivered across the MD during the past year, particularly in relation to roads and active travel. Six active travel schemes are currently underway, representing an investment of approximately €450,000. In addition, 10 roads, with a combined length of 13km, were repaired and stabilised under the pilot Low-Cost Intervention Scheme, while road safety improvement works were carried out at three locations.

Overall, Mr Flynn estimated that close to €4.5 million had been spent on road repairs and upgrades in 2025. He also welcomed the completion of reinstatement works on the R179 at Magheracloone, following the sinkhole events that occurred in late 2018.

The year also presented challenges, most notably Storm Éowyn, which required a swift and co-ordinated response. Mr Flynn explained that a Crisis Management Team was activated in advance of the storm, with an Emergency Response Recovery Group established immediately afterwards. He paid tribute to council crews who worked tirelessly to clear debris and restore routes once conditions allowed.

Community hubs, including Carrickmacross Civic Offices, Oram Community Centre and Inniskeen Community and Social Club, were commended for the critical role they played during this period. Mr Flynn noted that remedial works remain ongoing at Bully’s Acre, where uprooted trees disturbed the burial ground, while the installation of a new generator at Carrickmacross Civic Offices will ensure greater resilience in the future.

Turning to the towns themselves, Mr Flynn said regeneration remains a central focus. Planning activity has increased, with 54% of all planning applications across the county located within the MD. Of the 348 applications received countywide, 189 were within the district, including 148 new-build houses and 41 apartments.

In Castleblayney, a regeneration plan has been completed for the backlands bounded by Main Street, West Street, Muckno Street and McGrath Road. This plan provides a clear framework to activate underutilised spaces and guide future development. Meanwhile, the Market Square Phase II project, incorporating the Market House and public realm works, is awaiting Decision Gate 3 approval from the Department. Subject to approval, the council hopes to progress to planning and commence construction in early 2026.

In Carrickmacross, momentum continues to build. A preferred site has now been identified for the proposed swimming pool and leisure complex, with procurement underway for essential surveys. The Workhouse project will transform the historic site into a new community, tourism and arts hub. Following public consultation, the project is advancing towards detailed design and costings, which are expected by the end of the first quarter of 2026. The Bridewell project is also progressing through preliminary design, with surveys and stakeholder engagement paving the way for a Part 8 application early next year.

Mr Flynn also pointed to firm action being taken on dereliction. Across the MD, 147 vacant or derelict properties have been identified, with notices issued under various legislative provisions and 40 properties entered on the Derelict Sites Register.

Significant investment has also been made in public spaces and outdoor recreation. At Lough Muckno, consultants have been appointed to guide the sustainable development of this key amenity. Black Island has already benefited from pathway upgrades, new signage, seating and viewing points. In Carrickmacross, the Convent Lands landscape masterplan is shaping improved pedestrian and cycle links while accommodating educational and sporting needs. Recreational masterplans have also been prepared for Gallows Hill and Creevy Lough, with planning and cost development underway.

Smaller but meaningful interventions were also highlighted, including new sensory and outdoor educational spaces at Cloughvalley Park and Lough Muckno Park.

None of this work happens in isolation, Mr Flynn stressed, thanking elected members and community groups such as the Tidy Towns committees. Carrickmacross retained its Gold Medal status for a remarkable 13th consecutive year. Town teams, chambers of commerce and local organisations were also acknowledged for their role in events, the county gift card initiative and festive celebrations, including Carrickmacross Festival, Muckno Mania and the Castleblayney Christmas Market.

In closing, Mr Flynn said the past year demonstrated what can be achieved through sustained investment, strong leadership and collaboration between the council, elected members and local communities.

Responding, Fianna Fáil councillor P.J. O’Hanlon welcomed the uplift in planning activity, noting it would strengthen the MD’s case when seeking further investment. “Both towns are thriving,” he said.

Fine Gael councillor Peter Conlan also praised MD staff, both outdoor and office-based, for the work they do to keep the district running smoothly.