Piltown Community Group has been honoured at the All-Ireland Pride of Place Community Awards, held on Friday, 7 November in Limerick. The group received first place in the Population 1,000–2,000 category, recognising its outstanding commitment to community-led development.
Judges commended Piltown as a vibrant and forward-thinking village in the Suir Valley whose residents demonstrate inclusivity, collaboration, creativity, and resilience. They noted that the village’s projects show strong planning, effective partnerships, and deep pride of place, resulting in practical improvements that enhance local quality of life and create a welcoming, future-ready environment for visitors.
Kilkenny County Council has worked closely with Piltown Community Group on many major initiatives. These include the transformation of the former Garda Station into a new remote-working and community hub, developed in partnership with Piltown Enterprise Group, the Office of Public Works, and An Garda Síochána.
Another landmark project is Broadband 4 Our Community (B4OC)—Ireland’s first community-owned fibre broadband network. Profits from the service are reinvested into local projects, creating a sustainable model for rural communities. In addition, the Pil River Park and Playground stands as a symbol of community collaboration, offering inclusive facilities and a sensory garden for children of all abilities.
Piltown AFC has also benefited from grants and local fundraising, delivering new lighting, security fencing, and a popular community walkway. The village is home to the historic Iverk Show, one of Ireland’s oldest agricultural events, which will mark its 200th anniversary in 2026.
Kilkenny County Council nominated three groups—Piltown, Windgap, and Gowran—to represent the county at this year’s awards. Piltown’s judging visit included a presentation at the Community Centre, followed by a guided tour featuring the Tidy Towns’ Ink Bottle Bug Hotel, Piltown AFC walkway, upgraded GAA facilities, the community hub, and the Iverk Showgrounds.
Speaking after the awards, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, said:
“Piltown are a testament of how a community can set a vision, collaborate and achieve real life-changing projects for their community in partnership with the local authority. Congratulations to all the people of Piltown. I must also acknowledge our nominees from Windgap and Gowran who demonstrate remarkable dedication and pride in their communities. Well done to all involved.”
Windgap Community Group was nominated in the Community Wellbeing category, while Gowran competed in the Inclusive Communities category, both showcasing outstanding volunteer commitment during their tours.
Hosted by Dermot Whelan at Limerick’s Strand Hotel, the awards brought together 400 volunteers. Sponsored by IPB Insurance and now in its 23rd year, Pride of Place is the largest community development awards programme on the island of Ireland.
