Launch of Boyle 2040, October 1st 2018

Launch of Boyle 2040, October 1st 2018

Minister, County Manager, Cathaoirleach, Deputies, Senator, Councillors, ladies and gentleman, distinguished guests - I am delighted to be here today in my home town for the launch of this ambitious plan for Boyle.

This truly is a roadmap for the town, a plan which dovetails perfectly with the Government’s Project 2040 initiative. I lobbied extremely hard to ensure County Roscommon and Boyle were included in the Government’s €4 billion Capital Development Plan.

Indeed, Boyle is one of the few towns name-checked in the Government’s blueprint document and I am delighted that today’s launch of Boyle 2040 will mark the beginning of a major rejuvenation of the town centre.

Boyle 2040 plan is clearly the blueprint for the future development of the town. I am delighted that the document includes proposals for the former Royal Hotel site along with linkages to the planned Lough Key to Boyle Greenway.

For decades, Boyle, not being a county town or regional town, suffered unduly. However, I truly believe that now with Boyle 2040, our town will - and deservedly so - get preferential treatment.

I am confident that this plan will become the cornerstone for the revival of the town and surrounding areas.

Clearly, Boyle 2040 is a wonderful testament to the work of many people over the last number of years, not least Roscommon County Council and Boyle Town Team.

To conclude, we all know Boyle has so much to offer in terms of rich heritage and natural amenities. Indeed, we have Lough Key Forest Park, the jewel in the crown.  Twenty years ago, as chairperson of  Lough Key Forest Park Action Group, I successfully brought together the unique partnership of Roscommon County Council and Coillte. That partnership has transformed the Park into one of the country’s top national tourist and visitor attractions.

I believe this latest partnership between the Council, Boyle Town team and stakeholders will be equally fruitful and productive and, as a member of Government, I look forward to supporting this plan in whatever possible,

Thank you