A town in Tipperary to form town team in 2026 to boost community and local life

Cashel is set to gain a dedicated Town Team in early 2026, following a decision by Tipperary County Council. Councillors Liam Browne, Roger Kennedy and Declan Burgess have all been nominated by their colleagues to join the initiative, despite the Council Executive originally proposing just one councillor representative for a committee that may be capped at 12 members.

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The effort is being spearheaded by Shane Grogan, the Council’s Town Regeneration Officer, under the Government’s Town Centre First policy.

The scheme is designed to make town centres more attractive and functional for residents, workers and visitors, while reinforcing their role as social, cultural and recreational hubs for local communities.

Mr Grogan explained that the Council will reach out to individuals across a broad range of sectors, including community organisations, cultural groups, retailers, business associations, charities, schools and voluntary groups. These individuals will be asked to nominate representatives for possible inclusion on the team.

The Cashel Town Team will work alongside the Local Authority to develop a Town Centre First Plan, which will outline key projects aimed at enhancing the town centre and improving quality of life for its users. Funding for these projects will be sought through government programmes and European Union streams.

The team will operate independently and will appoint its own chairperson, known as the Town Champion. This figure will serve as the group’s spokesperson, supported by Local Authority staff in carrying out their responsibilities.

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