Our Story
Bagenalstown is blessed in having many natural and manmade environmental features which add to the attractiveness of the town and make it such a great place to live. The river Barrow, the Fair Green, the McGrath Park, the swimming pool, the courthouse, railway station, the various mill buildings harking back to the town’s formation and industrial heritage; all contribute to the quality of life we enjoy as proud citizens Bagenalstown.
In 1966 a group of civic minded townspeople came together to form Bagenalstown Improvement Group (BIG). They wanted to maintain and enhance the natural and physical environment of Bagenalstown. They appreciated the many assets the town had, but also saw the potential to develop them further.
Over the years BIG were instrumental in many initiatives which greatly enhanced the town’s appearance; the picnic table area by the Barrow, the Fair Green, entrances to the town, streetscapes, festivals. This work was done voluntarily by dedicated BIG members.
BIG submits the town’s Tidy Town’s application each year and also coordinates community employment schemes. In recent years BIG has strongly integrated environmental sustainability into its practices. Pollination and biodiversity are major considerations in planting schemes. Nesting boxes for sand martins and swallows have been installed. BIG has collaborated with other groups on the eradication of invasive species from the Barrow. It is implementing a Biodiversity Action Plan for Bagenalstown.
BIG is an integral part of community like in Bagenalstown. It has a proud history and will continue to evolve to meet the needs of the peoples of the town and the environment in which we live. There is always room for more people to get involved and contribute to the town’s wellbeing.