New homes and businesses breathe fresh life into Carlow town’s Barrack Street

Barrack Street is buzzing again. New homes, new businesses and a new walkway connecting it with Carlow Shopping Centre are bringing fresh life to the street, and the momentum is building.

“There’s no doubt Barrack Street has changed significantly,” said Derry Maher of Maher Property Advisors, who has been involved in letting a number of units on the street. “A few years ago, it was slightly forgotten about, sitting between Fairgreen and Carlow Shopping Centre, but today there’s a real sense of progress and positivity about the area.” The change can be attributed to a combination of factors. “The new homes have brought life back to properties that had been vacant for years, while the investment in public spaces and improved connectivity has made the area more attractive and accessible. Once people see cranes, builders, new residents and new businesses appearing, confidence starts to build and momentum follows,” said Mr Maher.

Barrack Street now ranks among Carlow’s most improved locations.It is a few steps from the town centre, right beside the bus park and close to the train station, served by new cycle paths, and also has handy parking for quick drop-offs.

“Accessibility is its greatest asset now,” he said, adding that the new walkway to Carlow Shopping Centre is “a big help”.

He credits Carpenters’ move to the corner of Barrack Street and the improvements at the Lismard Centre (where Bombay Diner and other restaurants/cafes are located) amongst elements that are transforming a street people once simply drove through. With its long avenue of trees, he believes the street has the potential to be “really beautiful”.

More change is on the way. Mr Maher said the new office development on Shamrock Plaza’s car park will bring another big and welcome change to the end of the street, and he would love to see the corner site at Staplestown Road and Walshes yard developed too. “This would add further life to the area, and bring businesses with it.” Something for everyone on Barrack Street From long-established favourites to brand-new arrivals, Barrack Street offers a real mix of businesses.

Two new names opened just two weeks ago.

Senator Windows has moved into a unit beside Namo, which had been vacant for around 15 years.

“We’re delighted to open our doors on Barrack Street and proud to be part of the local community,” the company said.

“We look forward to serving the people of this town for many years to come.” Laundry Boss is also a welcome new addition to the street. “From giant duvets to pet bedding, come in and be the boss of your laundry!” the business said.

The newcomers join businesses with deep roots. Carpenters Bar & Lounge, a Sunday lunch favourite regularly hailed as one of the best carveries in town, has been at the heart of Barrack Street for nearly 100 years.

“We are proud to support and serve our local community,” said Marc Carpenter.

“After 30 years on Barrack Street, Long Financial welcomes these improvements, strengthening our local business community for everyone in Carlow,” said trusted financial adviser owner Eamon Long.

Another mainstay of Barrack Street is Indian restaurant Bombay Diner, bringing delicious nights out and night in, to Carlovians for the past 16 years. “We are proud to be part of the local community and grateful for the support we have received over the years. We warmly welcome these improvements, which will help create a stronger, more vibrant town centre for local businesses, residents and visitors.” The variety on the street is one of its great strengths. Beauty businesses, including a nail bar, barbers and an aesthetics clinic, sit alongside an off-licence, a pub, fast food outlets, places to dine or grab a takeaway coffee and a selection of shops, all a couple of minutes walk from the centre of town.

Whether you’re dropping off your laundry, sitting down for a meal or popping in for a pint, Barrack Street is well worth a visit.

Barrack Street now ranks among Carlow’s most improved locations. It is a few steps from the town centre, right beside the bus park and close to the train station, served by new cycle paths, and also has handy parking for quick drop-offs.