Jackie Finney

Intent: Advance innovation infrastructure, business growth, and urban regeneration in Athlone

Details: Implementation of the Athlone Economic Strategy

Intent: Hold a follow-up pre-planning meeting with themto identify and discuss areas previously discussed which may arise as issueswith the planning and proposed developments. Address and resolve these points in advance so that the planningapplication can proceed smoothly when it is submitted.

Details: Pre-planning meeting with Westmeath County Council

Intent: To raise awareness of report findings and garner support for the recommendations.

Details: To secure meetings and engage with elected/designated officials in order to communicate the findings of Healthy Homes Ireland's report; 'Our place: Towards Healthier Greener Homes'. Hosted a breakfast forum event to discuss to how Ireland balances the need to build affordable homes at pace with deli, ... Read more

Intent: Hold an initial pre-planning meeting with them to identify any areas they may see as issues with the planning and proposed developments. Address and resolve these points in advance so that the planning application can proceed smoothly when it is submitted.

Details: Pre-planning meeting with Westmeath County Council

Intent: To raise concerns regarding the availability and capacity of childcare facilities in Athlone, particularly in the context of workforce participation and business growth.

Details: Provision of Childcare Facilities

Intent: To highlight the lack of bins at bus stops leading to visible rubbish accumulation, and to seek confirmation on whether bins will be installed. We aimed to encourage prompt action to improve cleanliness, public amenity, and the overall appearance of transport areas.

Details: Installation of bins at bus stops

Intent: To raise questions regarding the planned extension of library opening hours, specifically relating to the potential for increased anti-social behaviour. We sought clarity on any proposed security measures or staffing arrangements to ensure the safety of users, staff, and surrounding businesses.

Details: Extended Library opening hours and associated security concerns

Intent: To determine whether Westmeath County Council has received any indication of Ireland’s EU Presidency 2026 events being scheduled for Athlone, and to ensure the town is positioned to host or support such events, maximising opportunities for visibility, diplomacy, and economic benefit.

Details: Enquiry on Ireland's EU Presidency 2026 Events

Intent: To obtain the latest information on the progress, timelines and next steps for the Joint Urban Area Plan, emphasising the importance of avoiding further delays and ensuring the plan supports investment, development, and coordinated growth across the Athlone area.

Details: Update on Joint Urban Area Plan

Intent: To seek clarity on the status of Athlone’s inclusion in the Living City Initiative, understand the potential benefits for urban renewal and upper-floor residential development, and advocate for the town’s eligibility to support regeneration, investment, and increased town-centre living.

Details: Athlone's inclusion in the Living City Initiative