Written by Michael Doyle
Urlingford is a small, unique town situated in the northwest of County Kilkenny, along the border of County Tipperary. It has a population of 1,196 people, according to the 2022 Census. Located 125km west from Dublin and 129km from Cork, Urlingford is a popular rest point for people travelling between the two main cities of Ireland, while it is also an hour away from Limerick.
Urlingford is a place where locals, tourists, and passers-by can experience a town that continues to grow in its development and infrastructure, streets filled with history and a distinctive character reflected in its sense of community. As examples of the growth of Urlingford, here’s a look at the recent infrastructural developments and additions within the town.
Urlingford Fire Station:
On the 29th of May 2024, the new fire station for Urlingford was officially opened to the public. Minister Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage led the unveiling. The new facility features a two-bay station with a training yard and staff facilities, with a drill tower, an underground water tank, and breathing apparatus compressor room installed for specific training purposes.
Urlingford Community Centre:
The Urlingford Community Centre, which has stood as early as the 1700s, is currently going through a refurbishment project, which has been set up by the Urlingford Town Team. Much work has been completed to restore the old parochial hall to its former glory. In the First Phase of the project, the installation of new double-glazed windows and doors, a new roof, and gutters have been successful, amongst other things.
Phase Two received a significant boost when in late April 2024, it was announced by Minister Heather Humphreys, Minister for Rural and Community Development and Minister for Social Protection, that funding of up to €500,000 was allocated for the refurbishment of the building, as part of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. Work on Phase Two features the installation of fire and life safety systems and upgrade of existing sanitary facilities.
Exit 4 Urlingford:
On the 24th of April 2024, Minister Heather Humphreys was present to unveil Exit 4 Urlingford, the new remote working hub based in Urlingford. Formerly the Bank of Ireland branch office, it is located just off the M8 Dublin to Cork corridor. Exit 4 Urlingford offers a unique space for businesses, organisations or agencies to hold conferences or training within a mid-point location. Led by the Urlingford Town Team, it is the first fully dedicated remote working hub in rural Kilkenny. This forms part of Ireland’s National Hub Network, which aims to provide people with the opportunity to live and work locally to revive rural Ireland.
Overall, Urlingford is beaming in its development, with its improved amenities for the betterment of the community. Urlingford continues to grow as a town and as a community, with its ongoing investment from locals and organisations such as Urlingford Town Team ensuring a bright and positive future for Urlingford and its people.
