Launch of Tidy Districts Competition 2026

Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council is pleased to announce the launch of the Tidy Districts Competition 2026 and is inviting community groups across the county to get involved.

Tidy Districts continues to grow year on year, recognising and supporting the work of community groups of all sizes who are making a real difference to their local environments. The competition provides an opportunity for the Council to celebrate the achievements of estate management organisations, residents’ associations, and Tidy Towns groups, and to acknowledge the pride, collaboration and community spirit that underpin their efforts.

Speaking at the launch, An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Jim Gildea, said:

“Through Tidy Districts, communities across the county are showing what can be achieved when people work together to care for their surroundings. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown's groups are pioneering local level solutions to the global challenges of litter, climate change, biodiversity loss and more. The partnership between the Council and our community groups continues to be a strong driver of positive change.”

Originally established as an anti-litter initiative, Tidy Districts has evolved to reflect the expanding role of volunteer and community groups. Today, these groups are at the heart of their neighbourhoods, engaging in activities such as enhancing streetscapes, promoting biodiversity, encouraging sustainable practices, and bringing people together around shared goals.

Continuing from 2025, this year's competition maintains an emphasis on visual storytelling will enable participants to demonstrate the impact of their actions through photographs, helping to highlight the positive influence of community-led initiatives. Using last year's applications, the first ever Tidy Districts Highlights booklet was produced, celebrating groups efforts and sharing their ideas and inspiration with the whole county. 

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council, said:

“The commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteer groups is a constant source of inspiration, and we were delighted to promote this work through the Tidy Districts Highlights and Inspiration booklet. Their efforts enhance our towns, villages and residential areas, and delivers lasting benefits for everyone who lives there. We were delighted by the strong level of participation last year and look forward to welcoming even more groups to Tidy Districts in 2026.”

To see the Highlights and Inspiration Booklet and for Further details on how to apply, including application forms and guidance, please visit the Tidy Districts webpage:

https://www.dlrcoco.ie/environment-awareness-education/tidy-districts

Completed application forms must be submitted by 5 pm on 25 June 2026.

For queries, please email tidydistricts@dlrcoco.ie or contact 01 205 4700.