Tidy Towns project set to brighten up local ESB boxes

Portarlington Tidy Towns has announced that it's embarking on a new project which will result in ESB boxes in the town being brightened up by local artists.

The collaboration between the Tidy Towns group and the Port Art Collective is set to "enhance and showcase the fabulous talents of people living in our community".

Portarlington Tidy Towns said the first ESB box, across from the library, "has been completed and looks fantastic".

The initiative has also been welcomed by Laois Offaly Gardai, who said it was a "prime example" of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) activity.

"By transforming ordinary utility boxes into vibrant canvases, this initiative encourages community engagement and interaction," stated Laois Offaly Gardai in a social media post.

"The artwork not only beautifies the town but also invites passers by to pause, appreciate, and reflect on the creative expressions displayed.

"This form of activity support is particularly effective because it integrates art into everyday life, making it accessible to everyone in the community.

"It prompts people to take a closer look at their surroundings, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in their local environment.

"Additionally, by highlighting familiar cultural references and local talents, the project strengthens community bonds and supports local artists.

"The collaboration between the Port Art Collective and Portarlington Tidy Towns illustrates how art can be a tool for community building and enhancing public spaces, transforming mundane objects into sources of inspiration and joy."