Sligo County Council invites the public to help shape the future of Sligo Town

Sligo County Council invites the public to help shape the future of Sligo Town

Sligo County Council is inviting members of the public to take part in a pre-draft public consultation on a proposed new plan for Sligo and its environs.

The Council wants to hear from anyone who has an interest in Sligo’s future—residents, workers, businesses, schools, community groups. The Council is especially keen to hear from younger people, older residents and those with disabilities.

The consultation will run from 9 July to 22 August 2025.

The proposed Urban Area Plan will guide the development and regeneration of Sligo Town and environs over the coming years. To start the conversation, the Council has published an Issues Paper outlining the key issues for Sligo and raising the following questions:

  • How can we make Sligo more walkable and accessible?
  • What kind of housing does Sligo need?
  • Where should community and recreation facilities be improved?
  • What are the best ways to tackle vacancy and dereliction in the town centre?
  • How can we support local businesses and town centre vitality?

The Plan will not deal with land zoning—that’s already covered under the County Development Plan—but it will get into the finer detail of how Sligo can become a more vibrant, liveable and sustainable town.

“The proposed Urban Area Plan will be more than a planning document—it will be a blueprint for a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable Sligo as our commercial and residential hub. As Cathaoirleach, I believe this is our opportunity to shape a town that reflects the values and ambitions of our people. From climate resilience to heritage protection, from housing to sustainable mobility, this plan will guide how we live, work, and grow together. I urge every resident to take part in this important conversation and help us build the Sligo of tomorrow.” Cathaoirleach Cllr. Donal Gilroy, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Sligo.

“This is your chance to help shape the future of your town,” said Mr Frank Moylan, Senior Planner, Planning Section. “We want to know what’s working, what needs to change, and what kind of town you want Sligo to become.”

Several transformative projects are highlighted in the Issues Paper, such as the redevelopment of the Harbour area, a new City Campus including a central library and museum, the delivery of a Wayfinding Strategy and the provision of a network of Green Corridors throughout the town. The UAP will also consider how to make Sligo a “10-minute town”—a place where people can access most of their daily needs within a 10-minute walk, cycle, or bus trip.

Submissions may be made online at consult.sligococo.ie, or by email or post (details in the Issues Paper). Submissions must be received by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, 22 August 2025.

For further information and to read the full Issues Paper, visit  consult.sligococo.ie.