Source: https://www.tidytowns.ie/u_reports/2018/cork-west/2018-County-Cork_West-Skibbereen-693.pdf
“These are exciting times in Skibbereen! We were delighted to see that a major new project is taking place with Uillinn the West Cork Arts Centre under development in the centre of your town. It is noted that the project also appears to involve improvements and upgrading works to the river and surrounding roads, paths and public spaces. It was surprising to see that there was no reference to this project in your application and we look forward to seeing further progress and hearing more details in 2019. Elsewhere in the town, the range of fine institutional buildings that can be observed emphasise the strong role of Skibbereen in education, local government and other matters in West Cork. There is an almost overwhelming range of fine historic buildings to be seen and you are commended on drawing all of these structures together and including them on your excellent Heritage Trail (with smart phone app). A number of these buildings stand out with the natural stone Abbeystrewery Church and the adjacent Hall drawing positive attention while the majestic St Patrick’s Cathedral has a commanding presence. The Courthouse also looked well and we were delighted to see that the old Church on Bridge Street has been returned to active use as a popular restaurant. We would also like to commend the many business and shop owners in Skibbereen who have worked hard to present their commercial premises to a high standard. While they are too numerous to mention, special attention is due to Hamiltons Pharmacy (its wonderfully curved glass window is a true rarity nowadays), Charles McCarthy estate agents, an Chistin Beag, the Tudor style Permanent TSB building and adjacent Higgildy Piggildy, Designs, Sean Murrays, Pierce Hickey, Fields Coffee House and Gruagaire. Both the Post Office and the Bank of Ireland also looked very well. We would like to commend your committee on the completion of a number of excellent projects for this year. The three signposted walking trails are a wonderful new addition to your town and they draw together all of the built and natural heritage highlights of Skibbereen for the visitor. Project paint up is an excellent initiative and we are no doubt that it has had a strongly positive influence on the smart appearance of your town centre. We are pleased to see that the Russagh Mill Hostel is in the midst of a big cleanup and well done on writing to the owners of derelict houses and requesting them to tidy up the buildings. The newly painted hoarding on North Street is a colourful and engaging diversion and we were delighted to read that An Post have taken over a derelict site on Market Street and look forward to seeing it developed in the years ahead.”
Skibbereen Tidy Towns 