28 November 2017
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
Following the success of last year’s ‘Think Cork County’ campaign, which was brought to life by Cork County Council, the initiative is once again returning ahead of the festive season to encourage the residents of Cork’s many towns and villages to support their local businesses in the lead up to Christmas.
The local authority is the largest in Ireland
The 2017 campaign was officially launched today (Tuesday, 28th November) by Cork County Council Chief Executive Tim Lucey and Cork County Mayor Cllr Declan Hurley, just in time for the county to enter into one of the busiest month of the year. ‘Think Cork County’ recognises the abundance of eclectic businesses and services located all across Cork, something we often forget when it comes to purchasing Christmas gifts, stocking up on seasonal goodies or even deciding where to bring our car for its winter service. This initiative reminds Cork county residents that they do not always have to travel to the bustling cities or shop online in search of the items or services they require and encourages them to avail of what’s on offer a little closer to home. It also supports local jobs, community, community, festive spirit, and the vibrancy and prosperity of our towns.
One way in which Think Cork County incentivises the public to support local, is by offering free parking for the duration of December in all Cork County Council car parks located in a wide selection of towns around the county. There will also be designated free on-street parking zones available to commuters in selected areas, making it easier than ever for people to enjoy a Christmas spent in their local town or village.
Speaking at the launch, Tim Lucey explained why Think Cork County is a hugely important incentive for Cork as a whole. “Corkonians are known for being fervently proud of their county. The Think Cork County campaign calls upon Cork’s residents to demonstrate this pride by supporting the local businesses and services that are so important to the continuous growth and development of Cork. Christmas is a time of loving and giving and we believe that this can be extended to your local community. If you love where you live, it is so important to ensure the prosperous future of your area by investing into its businesses and supporting the local economy.”
Recent picture of Cllr. Declan Hurley Mayor of Cork County, attending another lively event
Picture Clare Keogh
County Mayor Cllr Declan Hurley echoed this sentiment, commenting: ”We are delighted to once again launch this campaign and we hope that people will continue to think local when they are considering Christmas this year. It is such a joy to see local communities thriving thanks to the continuous support they receive from their residents and Cork County Council are honoured to be a part of this success story by offering incentives for people to shop and invest in their home town this Christmas.”
Whether it’s choosing your local post office to send those all-important season’s greetings cards, creating a festive feast from the amazing local produce available at your village’s many food stores and eateries or simply being a part of the wonder that is created by the lighting up of your town’s twinkling lights, think your county, your town this Christmas.
Full listings of free car parking times and locations at www.corkcoco.ie. Follow @ThinkCorkCounty and @CorkCoCo on Facebook and Twitter for updates.
