Blackrock Ready To Welcome Entente Florale Jury
Excitement is building in Blackrock ahead of its participation in this year’s Entente Florale Europe, with the international jury due to visit on Wednesday, 8 July.
Blackrock was selected by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to represent Ireland in this year's competition, which promotes excellence in environmental stewardship, sustainability, community involvement and the enhancement of public spaces and quality of life.
In advance of the judging visit, Blackrock Tidy Towns, Louth County Council, local schools, community groups, residents and businesses have worked together to prepare for the event and showcase the area's environmental achievements, biodiversity initiatives, community spirit and quality of life to a European audience.
As part of its ongoing programme of works across Blackrock, Louth County Council has completed a range of improvements in recent months. These include footpath enhancement works and road resurfacing at various locations.
Additional improvements include the installation of new age-friendly seating outside Rock Court and at the junction of the Old Golf Links Road and the Rock Road. The popular old swimming pool walkway has also been refurbished, featuring the addition of a new perch seat overlooking the coastline.
The Entente Florale Europe jury will be guided through a specially designed route that consists of 12 stops, beginning at Blackrock Community Centre and taking in the Sundial, Priest’s Beach, St Oliver Plunkett’s Church, Dundalk Golf Club, The Square, Newline Lane, Hamilton Marsh, Haggardstown/Blackrock Old Church and Graveyard, St Francis National School and Rathmount Estate, before concluding at Blackrock Park.
Along the route, designated speakers from Blackrock Tidy Towns, Louth County Council and community organisations will outline the work being undertaken across the area and its positive impact on residents and visitors alike.
The adjudicators will assess Blackrock across a broad range of criteria, including environmental sustainability, biodiversity, community involvement, planning, tourism and the overall presentation of the area.
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said:
“After months of preparation, everyone is looking forward to welcoming the Entente Florale Europe judges to Blackrock.
“Louth County Council has worked closely with Blackrock Tidy Towns and the wider community in preparing for this event, and the result is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through partnership, commitment and a shared vision for the future.
“We hope that the judges find their visit to be both enjoyable and inspiring, and that they experience the warmth, pride and community spirit that define Blackrock and the great county of Louth.”
John Horan, Blackrock Tidy Towns, said:
“Since the turn of the year, there has been a tremendous effort from volunteers, residents, schools, businesses and Louth County Council as we prepare to welcome the Entente Florale Europe jury to Blackrock.
“We are looking forward to sharing our story with the judges and wish to thank everyone who has contributed in any way to the preparations. The support we have received from the wider community has been fantastic and demonstrates the strong sense of pride and togetherness that exists throughout Blackrock.”
For more information on Entente Florale Europe, visit www.entente-florale.eu
