Kilmacthomas is set to benefit from a dedicated Town Centre First (TCF) regeneration plan, according to Waterford City and County Council's 2026 Annual Service Plan. The document, published in April 2026, states that the council intends to *"commence the process of preparing a TCF Plan for Kilmacthomas subject to funding."*

No construction timetable or design details have been published yet, but the formal inclusion of Kilmacthomas in the council's annual commitments is a significant step forward.

### What is Town Centre First?

The Town Centre First Policy is a major cross-government initiative, launched in February 2022, designed to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction, and breathe new life into town centres across Ireland. It provides a structured framework for communities to work with their local authority to develop a tailored regeneration plan.

Key elements typically included in a TCF Plan are:

- Audit of vacant and derelict properties
- Community consultation and engagement
- Land use analysis and development opportunities
- Proposals for new housing, public spaces, and amenities
- A prioritised implementation plan with associated funding bids

### Portlaw as a Local Example

The nearest completed example of a TCF Plan in the area is Portlaw, which was selected as one of Waterford's priority towns. Following two years of community engagement with the Paul Hogarth Company and Hall Black Douglas Architects, Portlaw now has a completed TCF Plan and Implementation Plan, along with proposals for a new town centre neighbourhood and a funding application under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.

Kilmacthomas is expected to follow a similar process once funding is confirmed.

### What This Means for Kilmacthomas

The town is well-positioned for regeneration. With the Waterford Greenway bringing significant footfall since 2017, the repurposed Workhouse complex already hosting thriving businesses, and the Flahavan's mill providing long-standing employment, a TCF Plan could unlock further investment in the town's public realm, housing, and commercial core.

The community will likely be invited to participate in surveys and consultations as part of the process. Watch this space for updates as the council progresses the funding application.

For more information on the Town Centre First policy, visit towncentrefirst.ie or contact the council's Economic Development team at economicdevelopment@waterfordcouncil.ie.

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### Official Sources

- Waterford Council — Annual Service Plan 2026 (PDF)
- Waterford Council — Town Centre First
- Portlaw Town Centre First Plan (PDF)
- National Town Centre First Policy
- Government TCF Policy Document