Westport has the x-factor: Despite the economic recovery, many regional towns across the country, particularly in the west, are still in decline, with shops closing and young people leaving for opportunities elsewhere.
• Simon Wall, an architect with Mayo County Council with responsibility for Westport, said the town’s development had stemmed from a single, clear plan. Simon Wall was guest speaker at a meeting in Lough Key Visitor Centre some years ago and gave an informative, illustrated presentation on the ‘secrets’ of Westport’s success.
