Caring for our environment.

The Tidy Towns National Competition is Ireland's premier environmental initiative organised by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. With over €150,000 worth of prizes on offer, the competition covers all aspects of the local environment, such as the built environment, landscaping, wildlife, protection of natural amenities, litter and waste control and overall maintenance and enhancement of residential areas including roads, streets and back areas. Marks are awarded under each of these categories, with the area scoring highest winning the overall national title. There are also many special awards for excellence in particular categories which can be won by areas that are not necessarily in the running for the overall title, such as for development of a heritage project, development of a waterside area, new buildings of architectural merit, best shop-fronts, etc.

An Taisce fully supports Tidy Towns with its emphasis on community involvement and sustainable development and encourages all areas, whether urban or rural, to sign up straightaway. If you are already competing in your own county or city environmental competitions, or taking part in any one of our own environmental initiatives, please be aware that the good work you are already doing will attract marks under Tidy Towns - and participation in Tidy Towns will equally encourage greater involvement and interest in your current activities - so don't delay and contact the Tidy Towns Unit in the Department straightaway and they will forward you all the necessary information and application forms.

For more information about The Tidy Towns National Competition, please contact:

The Tidy Towns Unit
Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
Custom House
Dublin 1
Tel: 01-888 2300/01, Email: tidytowns@environ.ie, Website: www.tidytowns.ie