Three midlands towns currently have a commercial vacancy rate above 20%.
The second phase of a plan to encourage investment in towns across the country by tackling vacancy and dereliction has been launched.
26 new towns were added to the 'Town Centre First' scheme today, with each to receive €30,000 to fund a redevelopment plan.
The aim of the scheme is to boost business and tourism, create community parks and walkways, and protect historical landmarks.
Three midlands towns currently have a commercial vacancy rate above 20% - Edenderry is at 24.5%, Mountmellick has 21.3% and in Athlone the rate is at 20%.
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, says her department will be liaising with all stakeholders in the community:
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