The newly developed Abbey Road Artists Studios in Athlone was shortlisted for the 2011 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, held in association with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government.
Announcing the shortlist, Ian Talbot, chief executive, Chambers Ireland said, “These awards provide a unique opportunity to strengthen the relationship between business, chambers, and local authorities. I am delighted that we are able to showcase the excellent work being undertaken by local authorities despite current difficulties and also highlight what can be achieved when local businesses and local government work together.”
The awards took place earlier this month. A total of 18 awards were presented across a variety of categories including: Supporting Active Communities; Festival of the Year; Strategic Water Initiative; Sports Development; and Local Authority Economic Efficiencies. Awards were be presented to the City/County Council of the Year and the Town/Borough Council of the Year.
Manager of Athlone Art and Heritage, Miriam Mulrennan, said “Being shortlisted for any award so early in the life of the studios is a testimony to the work that was done to breathe new life into this very special building. The practicality of providing workspaces for artists from the local area to work in, as well as a community space for workshops, classes, events, is to be commended. Hopefully this, as well as the other art and heritage facilities in the pipeline in Athlone, will signal a new chapter for art and heritage in Athlone and its environs”.
Ms Mulrennan added “The individual studios are all booked at present; however we will be doing a call in January as a studio is becoming available. I would encourage artists interested in taking a studio to get in touch with Athlone Art and Heritage sooner rather than later.”
