Milford chosen for Government Vacant to Vibrant scheme

The town of Milford has been selected for the Government’s new Vacant to Vibrant initiative, aimed at tackling vacant commercial premises and revitalising town centres.

The scheme, announced by Minister of State for Retail Alan Dillon, will see local authorities, Local Enterprise Offices and regeneration officers cooperate to identify opportunities to bring empty shopfronts back into productive use and support new businesses.

Independent Councillor for the Milford Electoral Area Declan Meehan welcomed the inclusion, describing it as “an important recognition of the potential that exists within our town centre.” He noted that vacant premises represent missed opportunities for local employment, enterprise, services and activity on the main street.

Meehan highlighted the success of the 2022 Streetscape Enhancement Initiative, which funded improvements to 20 buildings in Milford, improving shopfronts and overall attractiveness. He urged the Vacant to Vibrant initiative to build on that success and complement the Town Centre First process already in place.

The councillor called for Donegal County Council to work closely with businesses, property owners and prospective entrepreneurs to maximise the scheme’s benefits, aiming for new businesses and renewed activity on Milford’s main street.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Tom Fisk / Pexels.