Embedded Files
2026
Help us to make Johnstown a better place in which to live, work, and visit.
Click on the snapshot images to view details.
Click on the snapshot images to view details.
May
May
May 27th
Bright Yellow Paint
Bright Yellow Paint
Johnstown Wood Maple Estate gains yellow markings to end dangerous parking.
Those appearing at the Boyne estate appear to be ignored.
26th May
New Home
New Home
It's been a long journey for St Mary's Special School but they've finally found their new home in the Johnstown School Campus. It was lovely to see them officially open and we wish the team the very best.
26th May
Verge Upgrade
Verge Upgrade
Work begins to reimagine the verge along Metges Rd by levelling the ragwort and grasses. Only half the site is within this year's budget.
24th May
Apple Matchmaker
Apple Matchmaker
Did you know your apple tree might be lonely?
Most apple trees need a pollination partner nearby to produce fruit — and right now, we're on a mission to map Navan's hidden 'Secret Orchard' to help make that happen!
The Navan Apple Matchmaker project is looking for residents to register their apple trees — variety, pollination group, and Eircode — so we can spot the gaps and pair up neighbours' trees across the area.
It's not just about apples Every tree we map helps create ecological corridors, supports our local pollinators, and connects the pockets of green space that wildlife depends on.
Got an apple tree in your garden? You could be the missing piece someone else's tree has been waiting for!
Register your tree via our online form and help us grow a more biodiverse Navan — one tree at a time. https://forms.gle/2WNwPC8dNqC1vF2NA (Google Form or visit our website https://www.johnstowntidytowns.ie/.../apple-tree-mapping)
Tell a neighbour who might have a tree worth registering!
May 22nd
Let's feed our local bees!
Let's feed our local bees!
Part of our Tidy Towns mission is protecting local biodiversity. The World Bee Sanctuary has put together a fantastic, easy-to-read, no-nonsense guide on how we can help our native wild bees bounce back.
The secret?
It's all about providing clean, chemical-free habitat and food. From early-spring dandelions to late-autumn cosmos, every flower counts!
Let’s ditch the sprays, leave a patch of wildness, and plant for the pollinators.Take a look at their top recommended flowers and let's get planting across our community.
21st May
BIG NEWS: Our Climate Action Vision is Becoming Reality!
BIG NEWS: Our Climate Action Vision is Becoming Reality!
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that we have been awarded significant grant funding through the Community Climate Action Fund from the Climate Action Team at Meath County Council
This achievement is a massive milestone for our community and a testament to what happens when passionate people take action.
What’s Next?
With this funding, we’re bringing high-tech solutions and sustainable infrastructure to our local environment:
Thermal Imaging: To visualize exactly how our green spaces combat rising temperatures and, as a bonus, how our homes can reduce energy loss.
Biodiversity Growth: Transforming a +10,000sqm lawn into a living, breathing ecosystem for native pollinators and wildlife.
Weather Station: To collect real-time data on our local climate, helping us make smarter environmental decisions.
Travel Motivation: With a little bit of encouragement we can more easily change our habits!
We look forward to working alongside the team at Meath County Council to bring these local climate solutions to life.
Let’s get to work!
May 21st
Estate Clean Up
Estate Clean Up
May 21st
Traffic Alert: Weekend Works at Martha’s Bridge
Traffic Alert: Weekend Works at Martha’s Bridge
Meath County Council is advising residents and commuters of temporary traffic restrictions in Navan starting this weekend. These changes are part of the ongoing Martha’s Bridge to Circular Road Cycle and Pedestrian Scheme.
Weekend Schedule
The restrictions will be in place from 7:00 PM Friday to 6:00 AM Monday (with an extension to Tuesday for the June Bank Holiday) on the following dates:
May 22 – May 25
May 29 – June 2 (Bank Holiday weekend)
June 5 – June 8
June 12 – June 15
June 19 – June 22
Key Traffic Changes
To facilitate works at the junction of R147 Dublin Road, Springfield Glen (Limekiln), and Bóthar Sion, the following measures will apply:
R147 Dublin Road & Springfield Glen: Reduced to one lane at the junction with Stop/Go systems in place. Two-way traffic will be maintained but expect delays.
Bóthar Sion (One-Way System):
Traffic will be one-way only (Eastbound) heading from the R147 toward the Johnstown roundabout.
Westbound traffic (toward the R147) will be diverted at the Johnstown roundabout.
The right turn from R147 onto Bóthar Sion will be restricted.
Access: Local access to the IDA Business Park, Athlumney Abbey, and Athlumney Wood remains open. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout.
Need more info?
Diversion signs will be in place, but motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys.
Contact the Project Team:
Email: activetravel@meathcoco.ie
Phone: 046 9097150 (Office Hours)
Emergency Out-of-Hours: 1800 445 335
Updates: www.meath.ie
21st May
A biodiversity invasion is pointing towards a very dramatic change in the Clover Lawn Trial.
A convincing display of 30cm tall pockets of yellow creeping buttercup, pink petals of Herb Robert (Geranium Robertianum), and a few dandelions are still in seed, grass, and a rare glimpse of clover petals.
However, a few bees and pollinators are visiting.
May15th
No Mow May – it's not too late to start!
No Mow May – it's not too late to start!
It’s never too late!
Reducing mowing is one of the best ways to help pollinators at any time of year, regardless of when you start. Reducing mowing helps reduce the fertility of the soil over time, allowing local, native wildflowers to pop up naturally.
May15th
Development of the Meath Local Community Safety Plan
Development of the Meath Local Community Safety Plan
From Meath County Council
The Meath Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) is running a series of public consultations to support the development of the Meath Local Community Safety Plan.
The Community Safety Plan is a multi‑year strategy that sets out priority actions to improve safety and wellbeing in communities across Meath. It is being developed in collaboration with statutory agencies, local services, community and voluntary groups, and the public, and focuses on preventing crime and anti-social behaviour, strengthening local responses to safety concerns, and creating safer, more welcoming places to live, work, and do business.
Please complete the form below to register for one of the scheduled public consultation sessions listed below
May15th
Biodiversity Week Activities in Meath
Biodiversity Week Activities in Meath
Here's what's coming up in Meath for #BiodiversityWeek2026!
Find these and more on our calendar. Book your place now for one of these free events! Search 'Meath' in the county filter: https://biodiversityweek.ie/events/
More events across the country too!
May14th
Food from the Heart
Food from the Heart
Our volunteers collected food hampers lovingly assembled by Athboy's People Who Share Care Group for delivery to families living in food poverty in Co Meath.
May12th
Competition Entry
Competition Entry
We are thrilled to announce that our entry for the 2026 SuperValu Tidy Towns competition has officially been submitted! 📝✨
This year, we’ve taken a fresh look at our goals and have fully revised our 3-Year Strategic Plan. This roadmap will guide our efforts in enhancing local biodiversity, promoting sustainability, and making our neighborhood an even more vibrant place to live.
A massive thank you to all the volunteers and partners who have helped us get this far. We can't wait to share more of our upcoming projects with you all!
May12th
Decarbonising Zones
Decarbonising Zones
Book FREE tickets: https://eventmaster.ie/event/02Y8FzqsA1/pVencDdcX
Check out a series of family-fun sustainability days to celebrate our Decarbonising Zones across the county. The events will be packed with family fun activities all with a focus on providing valuable tips and information on ways in which we can be more sustainable in our everyday lives.
Highlights of the Event:
The Toy Library: Visit the Toy Library where you can freely give and take pre-loved toys within your community. Please note the Toy Library also requires registration at the following link:
Bettystown: The Toy Library Swap&Play in Bettystown, Co. Meath Tickets, Sunday, May 24 • 11 AM - 3 PM | Eventbrite
Clothing Swap Shops: For clothing swaps, bring any unwanted clothing and swap it for something you like. We'll accept a maximum of 15 items per person. You'll be given tokens based on what you bring, which you can use to swap for other items available.
Accepting at Clothes Swaps: Clean wearable clothing and accessories.
Not Accepting at Clothes Swaps: Shoes, Underwear, swimwear, bedding, jewellery/piercings
Furniture Repair Cafés: Visit our furniture repair café and learn from furniture repair experts on how you can fix your damaged items & furnishings.
If items are too big please bring photos and we can provide advice on how to fix it at home.
Bike Repair Demos: Call in to our bike repair demo and get advice from industry experts as to how to best fix and maintain your bike.
Upcycling Clothing Demos: Participate in workshops on how to upcycle and repurpose old clothing pieces.
Sustainable Home Gardening Demo: Check out our sustainable gardening demo and learn more about permaculture, Hugelkultur garden beds and how to garden sustainably.
Sustainable Energy Community Mentors: The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) will be present to introduce the SEC programme and various SEAI retrofit grants and supports.
Energy Retrofit Van: Learn more about home energy retrofits and explore how you can improve your own energy efficiency
Facepainting: Unleash your inner animal or flowerchild with our wildlife-inspired transformations and get a brush with imagination to turn your face into a work of natural art.
This event is a fantastic opportunity for families, homeowners, and anyone interested in sustainable living to gain insights and practical knowledge. Don't miss out on this chance to learn how you can make your home or business more environmentally friendly.
May12th
Planting for a Changing Climate
Planting for a Changing Climate
from meathcoco.ie
National Biodiversity Week is all about connecting you with nature. It’s about communicating the importance of biodiversity and providing motivation and know how to play your part in protecting it.
With this talk from Aoife Munn you can do just that. Aoife will help you discover smart, nature-friendly plants that reduce flooding, save time on maintenance, and transform your surroundings into vibrant places that will promote biodiversity.
Aoife Munn is a leading Sustainability Consultant and Corporate Wellbeing Speaker in Ireland, bringing 17 years of experience in environmental action. Aoife's passion is translating global sustainability goals into engaging, hands-on activities that deliver real benefits.
Venue: Navan Library
Date: Saturday 16th May
Time: 2.00 - 3.00 pm
Book a place online or contact Navan Library on 046-9097361 or navanlib@meathcoco.ie
May12th
Calling all Johnstown Birdwatchers!
Calling all Johnstown Birdwatchers!
How many of these feathery neighbors have visited your garden in the last year? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, our local ecosystem is buzzing with life, and we want to see what you are seeing!
The Johnstown "Spotted" List:
How many can you tick off?
The Bright Bunch: European Goldfinch, Eurasian Bluetit, Goldcrest, Eurasian Siskin.
The Garden Classics: European Robin, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Eurasian Blackbird.
The Bold & The Brave: Common Magpie, Hooded Crow, Wood Pigeon, Collared Dove.
The Hidden Gems: Eurasian Wren, Coal Tit, Redpoll, Dunnock, Song Thrush.
Pro-Tip: Become a Bird Detective
Stuck on a song or a flash of color? Download the Merlin Bird ID app. It’s like having a bird expert in your pocket—just record a sound or snap a photo to identify your visitor in seconds!
Take a Walk by the River...
If you’ve ventured down to the riverside lately, we bet you’ve seen even more species! Help us grow the Johnstown collection by adding your sightings.
May12th
Neat Edge
Neat Edge
Whilst we await the outcome of our Climate Action Fund Grant for the Chestnut and Elm Estate we make the long grass more appealing with a very wide perimeter cut.
This will also provide a 'cool pavement' in summer for dog walkers and encourage them to clean up after their pets!
May9th
"No Mow May"
"No Mow May"
We're finally showing beauty previously buried in our estate lawns! We've seen daisies and dandelions but what about this?
This splash of pale lilac dancing in the breeze lately is the Cuckoo Flower (also known as Lady’s Smock), and it’s currently stealing the show in those estate lawns participating in No Mow May!
Why we love them:
The Name: Traditionally, these beauties bloom right when the first cuckoos start to call.
A Tiny Ecosystem: They are a vital food source for the Orange-tip butterfly. Keep an eye out for their bright orange wings fluttering nearby!
Johnstown Charm: Whether you’re walking the river paths or passing the local fields, their delicate "milkmaid" petals are a sure sign that warmer days are coming.
Join the Blossom Watch!
We want to see Johnstown through your lens. If you’ve snapped a photo of these wildflowers on your morning walk post it in the Facebook Page comments.
Tag your favorite walking spot in town.
Use #JohnstownInBloom #CuckooFlower #WildIreland #NoMowMay #NoMowLawn
Eco-Tip: As tempting as they are, please leave them for the pollinators to enjoy! They look much better in the ground (and in your photos) than in a vase.
9th May
20 new plugs together with a new apple tree purchased to make a dramatic feature in our Red Thyme Lawn Trail
May5th
Less in More
Less in More
Doing absolutely nothing can be the best thing to do!
You will already know that a "perfect" green short cut grass lawn is basically a food desert for our pollinators?
Therefore this month, we’re locking up the mower for #NoMowMay.
By letting the wildflowers and "weeds" bloom, you’re providing a vital nectar buffet for bees, butterflies, and birds during a critical time of year.
How to join in:
Step 1: Do absolutely nothing.
Step 2: Watch the flowers grow.
Step 3: Feel like an eco-warrior.
Let those dandelions shine!
#SaveTheBees #Biodiversity #SustainableLiving #WildflowerMeadow #LetItGrow
May2nd
Grow Your Bird Feed
Grow Your Bird Feed
Do you want to know how to keep the birds visiting your garden if you take BirdWatch Ireland's advice and pause the bird feeders for the summer (May 1st – Oct 31st)?
The answer?
Go Native!
BirdWatch Ireland suggests that the best way to feed birds sustainably is to plant the food they naturally crave. Here are our planting suggestions for our feathered friends this season:
1. The "Berry Best" Trees & Shrubs
These provide vital vitamins in late summer and autumn:
Rowan (Mountain Ash): A favorite for Thrushes and even rare Waxwings.
Hawthorn & Blackthorn: These offer dense protection for nests and a massive crop of berries (haws and sloes).
Holly: For a winter feast, plant a female Holly tree now (it will need a male tree nearby to fruit!).
2. Climbers: The Natural
High-Rise
Ivy: Don't cut it back! Ivy is one of the most important plants in Ireland. Its flowers feed insects in autumn, and its berries are a crucial calorie source in late winter.
Honeysuckle: Not only does it smell amazing, but its berries are a hit with Bullfinches and Warblers.
3. Let it Go to Seed!
Instead of dead-heading your flowers immediately, let them dry out.
Sunflowers & Teasels: These are "natural bird feeders." Goldfinches love picking the seeds directly from the dried heads.
Dandelions & Thistles: These might be "weeds" to some, but they are essential snacks for local finches.
4. The "Insect Buffet"
Most garden birds feed their chicks insects, not seeds. By planting native Irish wildflowers and reducing mowing (like #NoMowMay), you increase the caterpillar and beetle population—which is the ultimate high-protein baby food for nesting birds!
Tidy Towns Tip: Planting a native hedge is better for biodiversity than any fence. It provides a home, a highway, and a snack bar all in one!
What’s growing in your garden this summer? Post a photo
#TidyTowns #LivingLarder #NativePlanting #BirdWatchIreland #BiodiversityIreland #PollinatorPlan
May1st
Spring Clean
Spring Clean
Marking the Calendar: When to Feed (and When to Stop)
As our Tidy Towns biodiversity projects grow, we want to make sure we're following the latest expert advice. While we love seeing birds in our gardens, BirdWatch Ireland has updated its guidance to help protect our local finches and garden birds from disease.
The Golden Rule: Feed Seasonally
MAY 1st – OCTOBER 31st: The "Feeder Break"
BirdWatch Ireland now strongly urges everyone to stop using bird feeders (seeds and peanuts) during these months.
Why? Trichomoniasis (a fatal bird disease) spreads much faster in the warmth.
Nature Provides: Summer and Autumn provide plenty of natural insects, seeds, and berries. Our birds don't need the extra help right now, and removing feeders prevents large groups of birds from gathering and spreading sickness.
NOVEMBER 1st – APRIL 30th: The Winter Kitchen
This is the critical window! When the frost hits and natural food disappears, your garden feeders become a lifeline. High-energy peanuts, sunflower seeds, and fat balls are perfect during these cold months.
What can I do during the Summer Break?
If you miss your feathered visitors between May and October, you can still help safely:
Fresh Water is Priority: Keep those bird baths scrubbed and filled! This is the most helpful thing you can provide in the heat.
Go Natural: Instead of a feeder, plant a "living larder." Sunflowers, Teasel, and berry-bearing bushes like Rowan or Hawthorn are the best way to feed birds without the risk of disease.
Deep Clean: Use this summer "off-season" to give your feeders a serious soak in a mild disinfectant so they are sterile and ready for November 1st.
Let’s keep our local wildlife healthy and safe!
Full BirdWatch Ireland guidance: https://birdwatchireland.ie/.../feeding-your-garden-birds/
April
April
April 28th
It's not pet, human, or wildlife friendly in any way, shape, or form! The plants and aquatic life don't like this either!
It's not pet, human, or wildlife friendly in any way, shape, or form! The plants and aquatic life don't like this either!
A social media post raises concern.
Should residents associations be forced to purchase private public liability insurance and publicly advertise when chemical poisons are being sprayed in residential areas?
April 28th
Lawn Presentation
Lawn Presentation
Some areas of the Chestnut and Elm Estate Lawn will not be cut at all this year as we transition to a long term Biodiversity friendly maintenance plan. To ensure that it is well recieved by the community it will frequently have a perimeter cut and residents cleared weeds from the verge for the first time in years.
April 26th
Delayed First Lawn Cut
Delayed First Lawn Cut
Dandelions in seed, buttercups have appeared in the Bailis Downs estate lawn - will others be allowed to follow?
April 16th
Poisoned Schools
Poisoned Schools
Since 2021 our volunteers have prevented chemicsl poisons being used on Johnstown's main roads.
Can you help our youngest members of the community be protected at school too?
SPRAYING AT SCHOOL SURVEY
We’re on a mission to have #pesticides banned in Irish schools.
These chemicals are catastrophic for #nature and their links to our children’s health are very concerning.
We think it is therefore totally inappropriate for them to be used on school grounds.
But, the first step is to gather the facts and we need your help.
We are asking you as teachers, parents, students and members of the community to ANONYMOUSLY register if a school IS or ISN'T using these sprays. You can register ANY school anonymously. Only then can we understand the scale of the problem.
March
March
March 20th
Play Maintenance.
Play Maintenance.
We hope to change how lawns are maintained but it's often a priority for residents to have play space. Our volunteers cut out a football pitch on the top of Chestnut and Elm estate lawn in preparation for easter holiday.
March 10th
Verge Improvements
Verge Improvements
Proposal made to upgrade the presentation of the Athlumney Hall Verge.
March 10th
Planning
Planning
Proposal made to replace the wild area around the Bailis Downs fence line with a fruiting hedge.
February
February
February 4th
Bug Hotels
Bug Hotels
We’ve recently been asked if we can install bug hotels around Johnstown. The short answer is yes—but we are focusing on doing it the right way! 🛠️ As the saying goes, it’s all about “location, location, location.” 📍
Why Bug Hotels? 🤔
Why Bug Hotels? 🤔
When designed correctly, these structures are more than just garden decor. They provide:
🏠 Safe Harbors: Essential nesting for solitary bees and cozy winter shelter for ladybugs.
🐜 Nature’s Pest Control: They attract "good bugs" that naturally manage aphids and mites without chemicals.
🌻 Pollination Power: Solitary bees are incredibly efficient pollinators for our local flowers and gardens!
Small & Simple is Better 🏘️
Small & Simple is Better 🏘️
While "mega-hotels" look impressive, they can actually become a bit of a "double-edged sword" if neglected. Large structures can harbor disease, mold, and parasites, or even become an easy "buffet" for hungry birds. 🐦❌
That is why we are opting for smaller, high-quality designs. You may have seen the model at the IDA entry roundabout (pictured below); while it’s still waiting for its first guests to "check in," we know that patience and proper maintenance are key! 🕒🐝
The Plan for Johnstown
The Plan for Johnstown
We are excited to share that we’ve applied for funding through the MCC Climate Action Fund 2025. Our proposal includes:
🏗️ 30 Small Hotels: Focused on the Chestnut and Elm Living Lawns.
🎨 Community Designed: We want our neighbors to help shape the vision!
🪚 Locally Crafted: These will be built by the talented team at the Navan Men’s Shed using natural, breathable materials. 🪵
By keeping our hotels small and scattered, we’re ensuring a healthier environment for our pollinators and a more sustainable "urban jungle" for everyone in Johnstown. 🌳🦋
February 4th
Take Down Request.
Take Down Request.
The 2 large signs on Bothar Sion refer to the 2007-2013 road funding and we asked MCC if they are still relevant to be on display in 2026.
January
January
January 26th
Better Access
Better Access
The Johnstown School Campus is progressing and so too is safer access for students. The large green now has 2 extra wide footpaths with new crossing points that include cycle paths.
January 22nd
Johnstown Park Update
Johnstown Park Update
In mid-February, the design for the new Johnstown Park & Playground goes on public display.
The Details:
✅ 4-acre site with various amenities.
✅ 6-week window to view plans and send in your thoughts.
❌ Note: Despite ongoing pressure, a community centre is not currently included in these specific plans.
This project has been a long time coming. Make sure to engage and share your views once the consultation opens to ensure the final design works for our community!
January 16th
Winter Lights
Winter Lights
They added a sparkle well into the New Year. Thank you to the volunteers who've now put these lights into storage till November.
Any suggestions for next years display are more than welcome.
January 9th
Traffic Safety Update for Boyne View!
Traffic Safety Update for Boyne View!
To help keep our streets safe and stick to the 30km/h limit, Meath County Council is proposing new traffic calming measures for Boyne View.
Recent speed monitoring showed that speeds are still too high, so new safety features are being planned.
📍 Where: Boyne View Estate
📝 Your Turn: The plans are now on public display! We want to hear your thoughts before work begins.
Submissions are officially open now. Let’s work together to keep our estate safe for everyone! 🚗🚶♂️
January 4th
Crisp & Clear
Crisp & Clear
The pavement weeds continue to grow through winter even though today was fairly crisp with frost.
Volunteers are keeping our streets very well presented, and without using poisonous chemicals.
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