Helping Westmeath achieve its potential

A new strategy published this week aims to help Co Westmeath to "find its potential coming to fruition" over the next decade.

The draft strategy for the economic, social and cultural development of Co Westmeath in the years 2002-2012 was endorsed by the county council this week.

Westmeath County Development Board chairman, Mr Tom Cowley, said the report provided an overview of the main opportunities and threats facing the county.

"It provides a snapshot of the current situation in the county and identifies clear challenges and opportunities for the future," he said. The county had experienced unprecedented growth in recent years, he added.

However, rural areas in the north-west and north-east of the county had experienced population decline.

"Regeneration of these areas presents a key challenge, and there is a need to ensure the sustained vibrancy of all areas in the county," he said.

There was increasing pressure on the county's infrastructure and a need to ensure that it was upgraded to meet the existing and future needs of all residents and businesses.

Mr Cowley said the strategy contained a clear set of goals and objectives to meet the challenges facing the county.