Laois communities shine at national Pride of Place awards
Clough Village triumphed with a top award while Portlaoise Tidy Towns earned runner-up status at the 2026 Pride of Place ceremony. The event, held in Dublin, celebrated their outstanding community spirit and environmental efforts across County Laois.
Source:
Laois County Council
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⏱️ 2 min read
Both Clough Village and Portlaoise Tidy Towns received distinguished recognition at the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards, held at Dublin’s Convention Centre on 24 October 2026. Clough Village secured the Population 0-300 Award, with Portlaoise Tidy Towns named runners-up in the Climate Action and Biodiversity category.
Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, praised the achievements, highlighting the dedication and community spirit evident throughout the county. She remarked, "This is a proud night for Laois, showcasing the remarkable work of volunteers and community groups across our region."
Judges visited both communities earlier in July, experiencing firsthand the vibrant initiatives underway. In Portlaoise, judges Declan Nelson and John Briggs observed the town’s sustainable transformation, including a presentation at Portlaoise Library and a guided tour ending at An Dún outdoor space. Meanwhile, Judges Tom Dowling and Liam Hannaway explored Clough Village through a presentation at the local primary school and a village tour, concluding with a community gathering at the Parish Hall.
Community leaders expressed heartfelt appreciation for the recognition. Olga Hyland of Clough Pride of Place Committee thanked Laois County Council and the village community for their unwavering support. Vincent Booth, Chairperson of Portlaoise Tidy Towns, acknowledged the collaboration with the council in driving climate action and biodiversity efforts.
Michael Rainey, Chief Executive of Laois County Council, reflected on the successes as a testament to the power of collective effort in enhancing local environments and quality of life. The IPB Pride of Place competition, organised in association with Co-operation Ireland, celebrates communities across the island who unite to create positive change and improve daily living standards.
Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, praised the achievements, highlighting the dedication and community spirit evident throughout the county. She remarked, "This is a proud night for Laois, showcasing the remarkable work of volunteers and community groups across our region."
Judges visited both communities earlier in July, experiencing firsthand the vibrant initiatives underway. In Portlaoise, judges Declan Nelson and John Briggs observed the town’s sustainable transformation, including a presentation at Portlaoise Library and a guided tour ending at An Dún outdoor space. Meanwhile, Judges Tom Dowling and Liam Hannaway explored Clough Village through a presentation at the local primary school and a village tour, concluding with a community gathering at the Parish Hall.
Community leaders expressed heartfelt appreciation for the recognition. Olga Hyland of Clough Pride of Place Committee thanked Laois County Council and the village community for their unwavering support. Vincent Booth, Chairperson of Portlaoise Tidy Towns, acknowledged the collaboration with the council in driving climate action and biodiversity efforts.
Michael Rainey, Chief Executive of Laois County Council, reflected on the successes as a testament to the power of collective effort in enhancing local environments and quality of life. The IPB Pride of Place competition, organised in association with Co-operation Ireland, celebrates communities across the island who unite to create positive change and improve daily living standards.
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