Athlone councillors have requested that steps be taken to showcase Athlone Castle at night through the introduction of new lighting.
Independent councillor, Ailish McManus, raised a motion at this month’s meeting of the Municipal District requesting that lights on the bridge in front of the castle be upgraded. This led to a conversation about the lighting of the castle.
Independent councillor Michael O’Brien referred to the structure as “one of the most beautiful buildings in Ireland” and urged the council to introduce lighting.
Fianna Fáil’s Aengus O’Rourke said all efforts should be made to highlight what is Athlone’s main tourist attraction.
Director of services Barry Kehoe agreed with the councillors. “You would walk across the bridge some nights and not know the castle is there,” he commented.
Mr Kehoe added that illuminating the dark, limestone castle provides challenges, but that the council has been liaising with lighting providers to determine the best solution. He said a bundle solution should be arrived at that takes into account lighting for both the bridge and castle.
The bad news is that the project could cost up to six figures. However, he added that the spend would be “worthwhile”.
