Waterford City & County Council
Latest News & Announcements
Heritage Week in Waterford, August 17th – 25th
Heritage Week, running from August 17th to August 25th, offers a fantastic opportunity to dive into Waterford’s vibrant history and culture. With over 50 free events spread across the city and county, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From guided tours of medieval walls to fascinating exhibitions like the history of Dungarvan Swimming Pool, and live performances at the Woodstown Viking Heritage Festival, Waterford will be buzzing with activities that celebrate its past and present.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for fun, or someone curious about local heritage, this week is the perfect chance to explore Waterford’s treasures. Don’t miss the basket weaving demonstrations, the talks on local placenames, and the chance to walk through Waterford’s medieval walls. Each event offers a unique way to connect with the rich heritage of this region.
- For more details on events and timings, visit the Heritage Week website.
And if want to ‘do battle with Vikings’ check out Number 9 in the Irish Times – Ten great things to see and do in Heritage Week
Reminder // N25 Roadworks/Closure, Cushcam
N25 Road closure at Cushcam, 4km East of Dungarvan, 19th of August at 8am-8pm.
Diversions in place (see below). Expect delays and drive carefully.
Waterford City and County Council shortlisted for three Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards
Waterford City and County Council has been shortlisted in three categories of the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2024.
The awards are held in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and showcase best practice in local government and recognise the skills, vision and innovation within local government.
The Irish Wake Museum has been shortlisted in the Heritage & Built Environment category. This category celebrates best in class by a Local Authority to promote public interest in, and knowledge, appreciation and protection of local heritage sites.
Following extensive conservation of dwellings 3, 4 and 5 Cathedral Square which were originally built as almshouses in 1478, the Irish Wake Museum is now housed in the heart of the Viking Triangle. The award-winning museum explores the theme of death and the customs and superstitions that surround the traditional Irish wake.
The conservation and exposure of many historical elements of the building such as the 15th century oak frame walls, original open fireplace, 18th century plasterwork with hand painted stencilling decoration and 19th century plasterwork which features soft animal hair in the mortar gives visitors the opportunity to see how this historic building has evolved over time.
In the Urban Revival category Waterford City and County Council’s efforts in Reviving Urban Living by reducing Property vacancy and Dereliction has been shortlisted. This award recognises initiatives that promote urbanism through improving and enhancing the lived experience in urban environments.
Over 715 dwellings have been revitalised through various initiatives, signifying substantial progress in addressing vacancy and dereliction in Waterford’s towns and villages. By taking on projects that were previously deemed unviable, Waterford City and County Council has delivered impactful solutions and infused vibrancy and vitality throughout the city and county.
The Connecting Communities Roadshow is shortlisted in the Municipal District Initiative category. This award recognises the impact of initiatives that maximise the contribution of the municipal district members to local authority effectiveness, particularly in terms of governance, local representation, conduct of council business, community engagement, and economic, social and local development generally.
Waterford City and County Council hosted a series of Connecting Communities Roadshows throughout the city and county, giving local communities the opportunity to engage with the Local Authority and its associated partners. These popular roadshows also provided insight and guidance about setting up community groups, sourcing funding for developing community initiatives and how to build a stronger, inclusive, and vibrant place to live.
The initiative was spearheaded by Waterford City and County Council’s Healthy Waterford branch and Waterford PPN, in collaboration with various departments within Waterford City and County Council and external stakeholder groups.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy commended the shortlisted projects saying, “I am delighted to see that Waterford City and County Council has been shortlisted in three categories of the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards. The shortlisted projects highlight the vision, dedication and commitment of the Council, its staff, external stakeholders and community groups in truly making Waterford the best place to live, work, visit and invest in.”
The 2024 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, sponsored by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage take place in Dublin on November 21st.
New Tramore Skatepark set to ‘bowl over’ skateboarders
Work is progressing well on Tramore’s newest outdoor amenity, the Skatepark on the Lower Prom.
The high-quality facility will be constructed in concrete and combine elements of bowl and street plaza features. It has been designed with the specific needs of skateboarders in mind with input from the local skateboarding community.
Dawn Wallace, Senior Executive Officer, Waterford City and County Council said, “The skatepark is shaping up really well, and even at this early stage the feedback from skateboarders and the local community has been extremely positive.
“Not only will the skatepark be an attractive and accessible outdoor recreational facility, but it will also be a fabulous asset to the town and significantly improve the aesthetics on the Lower Prom and make Tramore an even more inviting destination for tourists, day-trippers and locals.”
Brian Murray, Assistant Engineer with Waterford City and County Council added, “This new state of art skatepark is to replace the former facility on the site. The former skatepark was a great draw for dedicated skateboarders, however over a period of twenty years the infrastructure constructed from steel and fibreglass deteriorated gradually.
“The new concrete skatepark will be much more resilient to the elements and provide a safer boarding experience for all users.”
Local skateboarding groups were consulted in the creation of the preliminary design, and specialist companies Browne Brothers Site Services Limited and Vulcano Skateparks were engaged to undertake the detailed design and construction.
The input from the skateboarders was very much taken on board and when officially opened later in the Autumn, skaters of all abilities will be able to effortlessly complete their ollies, frontside 180s, laser flips and kick flips in the bowl section, while at the street plaza area, skaters can negotiate street obstacles such as railings and ledges.
The main funding stream for the project is the Community Recognition Fund from the Department of Rural and Community Development with additional funds provided by Waterford City and County Council.
The new Tramore Skatepark will be officially opened by the Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Jason Murphy in September.
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Images: Peter Breen: T Bay Surf Centre
Good Luck to Damien Vereker and Team Ireland at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
Damien, originally from Kilkenny and now based in Waterford, is an experienced member of the Ireland Para-cycling National Team. His hard work and commitment to the sport were showcased when he represented Ireland at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where he achieved an impressive 8th place finish.
Training with the Comeragh Cycling Club in Waterford, his partnership with sighted pilot, Donegal’s Mitchell McLaughlin, has been an important factor in his success, with the pair included in a ten athlete strong para-cycling team for the Games. As Damien prepares to compete in Paris, he carries with him the well wishes of communities in Waterford, Kilkenny, and right across the country.
Ballynaparka Riverbank Maintenance: Public Notice
Waterford City and County Council are proposing three essential projects focused on the maintenance and repair of riverbanks. These projects are planned for specific areas along the Owennashad River at Carrignagower Picnic Area, the Ballynaheeny Bridge, and the Ballynaparka/Goish River where build-up of mud and wood detritus has constricted river flow and leads to road flooding.
These proposals are subject to assessment under the European Union (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. The Council will determine whether the proposed works could potentially impact the integrity of any European sites.
To ensure transparency and public participation, Natura Impact Statements and detailed maps of the proposed projects are available for public viewing. These documents can be accessed online via the Waterford City and County Council’s website. Additionally, they can be viewed in person by appointment at the Civic Offices in Dungarvan.
For those interested in obtaining hard copies, they can be purchased at a reasonable fee. The Council encourages public engagement, inviting submissions or observations regarding the projects within 30 days of this notice. Submissions can be sent via email or traditional mail to the relevant offices.
The public may make submissions or observations in writing concerning the proposed projects (within 30 days from the date of this notice) to Waterford City and County Council. Submissions or observations may be sent by email to the following email address: bguest@waterfordcouncil.ie
Alternatively, submissions or observations may be sent by post to: Heritage Officer, Planning Office, Menapia Building, The Mall, Waterford.
For further details and to participate in the consultation, please visit the Public Consultations page.
Reminder: Waterford Libraries present Heritage Week programme of events
Heritage Week takes place across the country from August 17th to August 25th and Waterford Libraries will host a series of free events throughout the city and county.
An initiative of the Heritage Council, National Heritage Week celebrates all things heritage. It brings together communities, families, organisations, cultural institutions, academics and enthusiasts, to build awareness about the value of heritage and support its conservation.
Local historian Paul Brent will lead a Promenade walk in Tramore on Sunday, August 18th starting at 2pm at the Old Train Station. This walk is an opportunity to hear about the people, places and events that shaped the Tramore of today, with a walk along the promenade and a visit to the Men’s and Ladies Slips. This is a free event and booking is not required.
On Tuesday, August 20th at Ardkeen Library, musicologist, singer and piper, Tigerlily Keoghan, will explore the traditional music of the Irish diaspora of the United States in the decades following the Great Famine.
On Wednesday, August 21st Central Library will hold a craft demonstration in Basket Weaving with local Tramore basket maker, Cathy Hayden. A Waterford Crafts member for nearly 30 years, Cathy runs basketry workshops for beginners and grows her own willow for all her baskets.
Also at Central Library, Dr. Maxine Keoghan will give a talk “From the Southeast of Ireland to the Shores of Newfoundland – Ireland’s Greatest Diaspora” and discuss Irish Newfoundland connections which began over two hundred years ago and continue to this day.
On August 22nd Marcus Copley from Waterford City Trust will talk about the heritage of Blue Plaques of Waterford City and County and delve into the rich social and general history of the city and county. There will also be a Map Making Craft Workshop for children on Friday, August 23rd.
Dungarvan Library will be treating visitors to excerpts from Crotty the Highwayman and Petticoat Loose by award-winning playwright Martina Collender and performed by Dungarvan Drama Circle on Saturday, August 24th.
Step back in time and into local folklore to join us for this dramatic storytelling experience by Dungarvan Drama Circle. Learn about these two Waterford legends and be transported to the days of robbers, witches and ghosts. Meet William Crotty, the highwayman who stole from the rich to give to the poor, the woman who loved him and the man who betrayed him. Listen to the tale of the woman undone and her revenge taken during her lifetime and from beyond.
All Waterford Libraries events are free, however booking is advised. To find out about Heritage Week at Waterford Libraries visit https://waterfordlibraries.ie/heritage-week-2024-at-waterford-libraries/
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‘Not Stopping Now’ webinars
The Climate Ambassador Programme, in collaboration with The Heritage Council and The Biodiversity Officer Network, is excited to bring you a new series of webinars designed to help you reconnect with nature. ‘Not Stopping Now’ will feature four engaging webinars, each focusing on a different aspect of our amazing biodiversity.
1. August 21st: Bats with Bat Conservation Ireland. Register here.
2. September 18th: Birds with bird specialists. Register here.
3. October 16th: Dark Skies with Dark Sky Ireland. Register here.
The sessions will showcase nature’s incredible ability to adapt, highlight innovative conservation efforts, and explore how we can all play a part in supporting these initiatives. Don’t miss out — reserve your spot below and be part of the journey towards a more resilient and vibrant natural world!
See you there,
The Climate Ambassador and Biodiversity Officer Networks
Enjoy a Slice of Culture at Waterford Harvest Festival
Waterford’s Multicultural Festival, A Slice of Culture, will take place during this year’s Waterford Harvest Festival.
A Slice of Culture, first held in 2021, is collaborative effort between migrant individuals and communities of the Waterford New Communities Network, supported by Waterford City and County Council, Creative Ireland and SICAP.
Taking place in Wyse Park in the city centre from 11am to 7pm on Saturday, September 7th, the event promises a day of vibrant cultural celebrations, showcasing the rich diversity in Waterford’s communities.
The jam-packed lineup will feature music, dance and performances from Waterford’s varied cultural groups, food stalls with cuisines from across the globe, along with arts and crafts exhibitions showcasing art and international traditional attire.
At 3pm there will be the unveiling of a collaborative art collage created by migrant groups. The event is free and all are welcome. The Slice of Culture festival is a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of multiculturalism and foster community spirit.
For further details of Waterford’s Multicultural Festival at Waterford Harvest Festival, follow Waterford New Communities Network on social media or visit www.waterfordncn.ie
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Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards : Nominations Open
Speaking at the launch of the 20th Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards, Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr. Jason Murphy acknowledged the work of the PPN saying
“These awards were introduced 20 years ago, and I am delighted to be here today as these awards recognise and celebrate community organisations and volunteers who work so tirelessly in our communities; their outstanding contributions make their communities a great place to live, work, play and visit”.
The awards scheme is the only platform in Waterford to recognise and celebrate the commitment and vibrancy of the community and voluntary sector and recognise the value of the voluntary contribution made by community and voluntary groups and volunteers of all ages.
This year’s awards are in collaboration with Waterford City & County Council, Waterford Volunteer Centre, Expressway, Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership, South East Energy Agency, BHP Insurance, Cairde Credit Union & Waterford Credit Union and Local Link Waterford.
Frank Nolan Secretariat member from the Waterford PPN thanked all the sponsors saying “this the 20th year of the awards, I thank sincerely the organisations that have come on board this year to give honour to individuals and groups that contribute so much on a voluntary basis to the communities across County Waterford”
The award winners will be announced and presented at the gala dinner ceremony on Thursday 21st November in The Park, Hotel, Dungarvan. Representatives from nominated groups/volunteers will be invited to attend the ceremony.
Group Categories
- Children & Youth – Sponsored by Expressway
- Community Safety – Sponsored by Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership
- Environment & Conservation – Sponsored by South East Energy Agency
- Health & Wellbeing Sponsored by BHP Insurance
- Spick & Span/Best Kept Residential – Sponsored by Waterford City & County Council
- Social Enterprise – Sponsored by Cairde Credit Union & Waterford Credit Union
- Social Inclusion & Community Support – Sponsored by Local Link Waterford
Winners of the above awards will receive €700 per category and there will be 2 runner prizes of €300 per category.
Individual Volunteer of the Year Awards – Sponsored by Waterford Volunteer Centre
- Junior Volunteer of the Year
- Age Friendly Volunteer of the year
- Board/Committee Member of the year
The winner will receive a crystal award and a certificate of achievement.
Pride of Place National Award – Sponsored by Waterford City & County Council
The winning group (Chosen from the winners of the 7 category awards) will be put forward by Waterford City & County Council to represent Waterford in next year’s national Pride of Place awards.
Closing Date
Closing date for receipt of nominations is WEDNESDAY 4th SEPTEMBER 2024
For further information, Terms & Conditions and nomination forms please visit www.waterfordppn.ie call 058 21308 or email waterfordppn@gmail.com
So, go ahead and get nominating your local community group/club/organisation and volunteer champions.
Road Alert // N25 Roadworks/Closure, Cushcam
N25 Roadworks at Cushcam, 4km East of Dungarvan, starting tomorrow, 13th of August at 8am, until the 21st of August.
Stop/Go Traffic Management shall be in place. Expect delays and drive carefully.
There will also be a road closure on this road at Cushcam next week (week beginning 19th) – specific day to be advised. Diversion routes below.
Road Alert // N25 Roadworks/Closure, Cushcam
N25 Roadworks at Cushcam, 4km East of Dungarvan, starting tomorrow, 13th of August at 8am, until the 21st of August.
Stop/Go Traffic Management shall be in place. Expect delays and drive carefully.
There will also be a road closure on this road at Cushcam next week (week beginning 19th) – specific day to be advised. Diversion routes below.
Abbey Road – Temporary Road Closure Extension
BAM, the main contractor on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project, has advised Waterford City and County Council that the current road closure on Abbey Road will require a two-week extension to Friday, August 30th. The extension is to facilitate essential works for a deep foul sewer, new retaining wall and finishing works.
BAM has apologised for the inconvenience saying, “We are endeavouring to complete the works in as efficient and timely manner as practical, while also giving consideration to the numerous other unforeseen factors affecting the works in this area. We are conscious of and regret the disruption to the traffic flows, particularly as the school term commences. We have contacted local schools and businesses in the area, informing them of the extended closure period.”
Whilst Waterford City and County Council stipulated that BAM complete the works over a seven-week period during the school summer holidays, to avoid disruption to school traffic, the Council has been advised that the full closure of Abbey Road until August 30th is unavoidable to complete these works.
The extension to the closure is disappointing and Waterford City and County Council regrets the disruption that will be caused at the start of the new school term, as well as the ongoing disruption to local residents, businesses and bus services. It is also recognised that the
works must be completed in a safe and orderly manner within a confined works area.
Businesses in the area will continue to operate / trade as normal. Access will continue to be provided for pedestrians across the site during the extended closure, and local vehicular access points will remain operable on either side of the works. School access will continue to be available from the Fountain Street side of the works and arrangements will be in operation to assist school traffic. Traffic from the Christendom and Abbey Park side of the closure will continue to be diverted to the N29 / Port road.
Please follow all directional signage and utilise designated pedestrian crossings.
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- Free DIY Repair Workshop and Community Toolkit Initiative - November 04, 2025
- New eMobility eHub launches in Ballybricken, Waterford - November 04, 2025
- Lismore: Have Your Say on Waterford’s Biodiversity Action Plan - November 04, 2025
- Mayoral Reception honours Waterford’s first female International Soccer Player - November 04, 2025
- €893,454 in Outdoor Recreation Funding Announced for Waterford - November 03, 2025
- Waterford allocated €132,183 for Traveller Community Safety Educational Project - November 03, 2025
- Dunmore East: Have Your Say on Waterford’s Biodiversity Action Plan - November 03, 2025
- Published: Weekly Planning Lists - October 31, 2025
- All-Ireland Minor Ladies Football Champions honoured with Civic Reception - October 31, 2025
- Major water main upgrade begins in Lismore - October 30, 2025
- Former Governor of Mountjoy to address Waterford’s Age Well Expo - October 30, 2025
- Winners of Waterford Poetry Prize 2025 announced - October 28, 2025
