10% growth in Longford Population in Four Years

The population of County Longford has taken a major jump since 2002. Figures released today from the CSO show that 34,361 people are currently living in the county. This is an increase of 3,393 over the 2002 figures. The strong growth will come as no surprise to locals who see the demand for housing and retail throughout the county. Longford town grew to 7,612, an increase of 11.4%. The fastest growing town in the county is Edgeworthstown with a huge increase of 40% making it one of the fastest growing towns in the country. Most of the increase comes from net migration rather than an increase in births. Given the amount of construction throughout the county, the increase will be even more dramatic in the next four years. The figures are still well short of the 1926 figure of 39,847 but we should hit it by 2010. Full details are available at the CSO website.

Courthouse Restoration Complete

Longford Courthouse is ready to open following a long renovation project. The courthouse was built in 1791 and replaced an older one in the Market Square. Official opening will be by the Minister for Justice in August.

New Shopping Centre For Richmond St.

A major shopping centre scheme is in the pipeline for Longford town where CFO Construction is seeking permission to transform the old disused creamery buildings/agricultural sheds at Richmond St, Longford into a new retail magnet.

The proposed three storey complex will have a gross floor area of 16,433 sq m gross on a site of just under five acres. The proposed new centre will include a 5,563 sq m anchor (3000 sq m convenience and 2563 sq m comparison) plus 14 retail units.

There will be an enclosed mall area alongside a first floor foodhall, restaurant, medical clinic, creche and 419 car parking spaces. A link road between Connaught Road and Little Water Street is part of the plan.