Cut the Commute: Move to Longford
This week, itContracting showcases the lovely county of Longford as a perfect place to relocate.
Ireland is full of relic-like structures that have become prone to damage throughout the ages. Like St. Mel’s, a Longford cathedral that fell victim to a fire one Christmas Day.
Actor Mel Gibson was sent an appeal to donate towards its restoration. His mother, Anne was originally from the town. Now, it’s unclear whether the film star was named after the saint, but the cathedral was restored in 2015 following a €30m project. There’s a quick glimpse into this community’s spirit.
Part of the Midlands region in the heart of Ireland, Longford is a county often overlooked.
Moving to Longford?
If you’re looking for the fruitful country life, investing in Longford even seems to be profitable. According to the Irish Times, it became the highest county performer for property investment last year; approximately a yield of 7.7 per cent as of June 2017.
A sound investment, especially if you choose remote work where wages remain closer to the Dublin standard, while you enjoy the country cost of living. There’s a steady supply of housing; four-bed properties range in price from €70,000 to €260,000 in both new and established estates.
TIP: itContracting has several IT permanent and contracting opportunities available in Longford.
Leisure & Liveliness in Longford
Recreational facilities and amenities are abundant in Longford with a lovely walkway along the Royal Canal Way and secondly, the River Camlin which leads to the Mall Park Amenity and Sports Complex. There’s plenty of natural scenery to be seen including the Newcastle and Derrycassin Woods. And how about a spot of swimming in Lough Gowna during the summer?
Known for the best turf in Ireland, it’s also a breeding ground for grassroots music and arts festivals: Longford Summer Festival, Cruthú Arts Festival, Granard Harp Festival, Helium Festival, John Keenan Banjo Longford Festival and the recent addition; Hype Youthfest. Perhaps the highest number of festivals in Ireland per capita?
Looking for good food?
The Viewmount House has been lauded as one of the country’s finest restaurants. Awarded as the ‘Hospitality Hero’ last year, head chef Gary O’Hanlon and the owners of Viewmount House kitchen have been dominating the fine dining industry. Gary was recently awarded the Restaurant Association of Ireland’s ‘Best Chef’ in Leinster. An experience dubbed “close to Michelin quality” and not to be missed.
The future looks bright.
With a promised €233m Centre Parcs Holiday resort to commence construction shortly, the project is expected to employ up to 1,000 people and will have up to 500 lodges, and more than 100 activities. Not too bad for a county that is home to over 125,000 cows!
So, if you’re looking for the country life, it’s waiting in Longford.
If you’re interested in making the move to Longford, itContracting has several permanent and contracting opportunities available now. Submit your CV today or contact our team today.