Ballina Tidy Towns

It is our belief that a clean and tidy environment promotes positive behaviour. A tiny example of this: - Last year flower tubs were placed in an area of the village where we expected them to be up-ended or disappear within hours. On the contrary, the tubs not only remained intact but they were cared for and thrived well after those in other areas looked tired.
We find that most people are appreciative of our efforts and achievements in improving the appearance of our village.
Involvement in Tidy Towns is a very positive and encouraging experience bringing the community together and creating an awareness of our surroundings.

We have tremendous community involvement (including members of the Eastern-European community) who volunteer time year-round for; planting, weeding and litter control. And in Summer months are involved in painting, watering and assisting with large projects.
We recognise that not everyone is a committee person but everyones support is appreciated. The committee and ‘friends of Tidy Towns’ work together to build on the great foundation of community spirit in Ballina.
We have a very proactive committee who often work above the normal call of duty, our Chairman, Jim Watkins, goes out on Litter Patrol every morning at 6.00am.
Chairman of Ballina National School Green Committee is now the Ballina Tidy Towns School Liaison Officer.
20 “Friends of Tidy Towns” assisted with Bag Packing Fundraiser at Easter.
“Friends of Tidy Towns” turned out in abundance for National Spring Clean Day.

We received a grant from North Tipperary Co. Council. NTCC also sponsored ‘Adopt a Bank’. For the forth year Queally’s Supervalu Killaloe has made a commitment to be our main sponsor for 2009. They provide financial and practical support. Over Easter weekend ’09 they permitted in-store bag packing collections - a joint fundraiser with Killaloe Tidy Towns. This added €2,000 to the coffers of Ballina Tidy Towns. Queally’s also funded our Local Environmental Awards Presentation evening which was a resounding success.
We are generously supported by parishioners in the annual church gate collection, affirming their appreciation of our efforts.
Leader has renewed the contract of an assistant provided through their Rural and Social Scheme.
Local developer and farmers used their machinery to help us rescue a natural amenity area. They are frequently generous in giving their time and expertise.
Ballina Tidy Towns Group and Killaloe Tidy Towns Group co-operate with and support each other.
The Scouts, school and members of the community join in various activities.
Shannon Development, Coillte, FAS, and An Taisce have all given support.
We are actively seeking grant to restore the ‘Washer Woman’s’ Footbridge which is the entrance point to the northern end of the Riverside Park.

Our Annual Local Environment Awards Night.

Lighting of the Christmas Tree.

A little sample of the handiwork of our volunteers.