Campaign to enhance business and heritage in kells

Two of Ireland’s leading urban planners will be in Kells on Thursday to offer advice on developing business in the town while maintaining and enhancing its unique historical heritage.

Former Minister of State and one-time Green Party TD Ciaran Cuffe, a lecturer at Dublin IT in Bolton Street as well as Westport town architect Simon Wall, will participate at a conference titled 'Kells-The Bigger Picture'.

“We want to grow visitor numbers and local spend in Kells and rejuvenate commercial activity in the town,” said Kells Local Heroes chairman, Ken Murray.

Joining Ciaran Cuffe and Simon Wall on stage will be Jill Chadwick, conservation officer with Meath County Council whose presentation will focus on developing the streetscape of the town.

According to Mr Murray, “Each of our guest speakers will bring a different perspective on town planning. Simon Wall in particular is widely respected as being the number one expert in the area of town planning and sustainable commercial development.

“If what has happened in Westport over the past 20 years could be replicated in Kells, it would be win-win for tourists, visitors and local traders,” he said.

A large number of local business interests as well as officials from a number of county councils are expected to be in attendance.

Organised in association with Meath County Council and Kells Chamber of the Commerce, the conference will be chaired by RTE Radio Presenter and local resident Myles Dungan.

The conference takes place at the Church of Ireland adjacent to Church Street and gets underway at 7pm.

Admission is free of charge and members of the public, retail traders and professionals from County Meath and beyond are invited to attend.