Abbeyleix Tidy Towns has been a community-led organisation for over 60 years, bringing people together to care for, enhance and reimagine Abbeyleix as a great place to live, work and visit.
Founded in 1959, the committee has grown from a small volunteer group into a strong community network working in partnership with local schools, community organisations, Laois County Council and national agencies. Today, our work spans biodiversity, climate action, heritage, placemaking and community wellbeing.
Our vision is to develop Abbeyleix as a smart, sustainable heritage town — one that protects its natural environment, celebrates its history and supports a thriving, inclusive community for future generations.
We pride ourselves on being open, inclusive and collaborative. Our projects are shaped and delivered with the community — from householders and schools to businesses and voluntary groups — and supported through strong partnerships with public bodies and external organisations.
Volunteerism is at the heart of our success. Our active committee is supported by a wider network of local volunteers who help bring projects to life across the town.
What We Work Towards
Our goals are simple but ambitious:
• Protect and enhance Abbeyleix’s heritage and public spaces
• Promote biodiversity and environmental responsibility
• Build community pride and participation
• Deliver innovative projects that respond to local challenges
• Use resources effectively for lasting community benefit
Abbeyleix Tidy Towns operates under a five-year action plan that guides our projects and priorities across environmental, social and community development themes. This plan encourages shared ownership, teamwork and long-term thinking, ensuring our work delivers real impact for Abbeyleix.
A Proud Track Record
Our community efforts have been recognised locally, regionally nationally and event internationally, including overall winner in the National Tidy Towns competition in recent years. These achievements reflect the dedication of volunteers past and present who continue to strengthen the town year after year.
Everything we do is driven by a shared pride in Abbeyleix and a belief that strong communities are built when everyone is encouraged to participate. We are committed to inclusion, ensuring that all members of the community have opportunities to get involved, build confidence and help shape the future of our town.