Christmas Cheer Brightens Portlaoise’s Former Charlie Keegan’s Pub
A Laois construction company has added a festive touch to a vacant pub in Portlaoise, transforming an unsightly sight into a holiday-themed display. Martin Reddin, a local contractor, installed a vibrant Santa-themed hoarding at the front of the closed Charlie Keegan’s pub, located at the base of Main Street. The decorative hoarding features an eye-catching image of Santa Claus in his sleigh, pulled by Rudolph and his reindeer team, adding a joyful flair to the streetscape.
A Long-Vacant Landmark
The historic building, known for its long-standing presence in the community, has been empty since 2017 and was previously subject to action from Laois County Council. In March 2024, the council placed the pub, located at 16 Main Street, on its Derelict Sites Register due to its deteriorating condition. The local authority had served notice of dereliction over a year ago, indicating the necessity for some intervention.
Laois County Council’s Planning section commented that they were not aware of any intended works on the property. This surprising festive installation by Martin Reddin appears to have taken both the council and the local community by surprise, signaling a potential shift in the future of this landmark.
Bringing the Community Together
The festive hoarding not only beautifies the area but also fosters a sense of community spirit during the holiday season. "We always aim to contribute positively to our local environment," said a representative from Martin Reddin. "This hoarding is a small gesture to bring some joy and festive cheer to the town during these challenging times."
A Call for Revitalization
This initiative comes at a crucial time as Portlaoise and many other towns across the country grapple with the challenges posed by vacant properties. Many residents have longed for revitalization efforts for historical sites such as Charlie Keegan’s, which holds sentimental value for many in the town.
The council’s actions to list the pub as derelict could pave the way for potential future developments. As communities continue to adapt to changing economic landscapes, such festive displays remind us of the importance of preserving local heritage while embracing change.
The installation by Martin Reddin has not gone unnoticed by locals, who view it as a step towards breathing new life into the vacant site. Many expressed enthusiasm on social media, sharing photos and encouraging discussions about the future of the heritage pubs in Portlaoise.
As the cold winter months settle in, the Santa-themed hoarding conveys a message of hope and renewal, suggesting that even the most neglected spaces have the potential for transformation.
Future Prospects
While the hoarding serves as a temporary solution, the future of Charlie Keegan’s remains uncertain. The hope is that the festive display will inspire both the public and the council to consider creative solutions for the pub’s revival.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to engage with these developments in their community. “What do you think should happen to the old Charlie Keegan’s pub? Should it be restored or repurposed for a new project?” These questions are critical as the community looks to the future.
Your thoughts and ideas about revitalizing Portlaoise’s historical spaces are welcome. Share your comments below or join the conversation on our social media channels!
This article not only informs readers about the changes in Portlaoise but also invites them to reflect on the community’s future and the importance of local heritage.
