Waterford city has won the Irish Times Best Place to Live in Ireland contest 2021.
According to the Irish Times “it was the unanimous choice of the judging panel after 15 weeks of nominations, research and deliberation in the competition, which is supported by Randox Health”.
After the contest began, on June 12th, 2,400 people nominated 470 places across all 32 counties. The judging panel – Zainab Boladale, presenter of RTÉ’s Nationwide; Rosita Boland, Irish Times journalist; Dr Illona Duffy, GP and public-health commentator; Simon Wall, Mayo county architect; and, as the chair, the Irish Times journalist Conor Goodman – assessed the nominated cities, towns, villages and suburbs on criteria including affordability; natural amenities; buildings; community initiatives and spirit; presence of clubs, societies and activities; good local services; diversity; a welcome for outsiders; transport links; employment opportunities; digital links for distance working; and safety and security.
Waterford City beat stiff competition from four other shortlisted locations: Clonakilty, Co Cork; Galway city; Glaslough, Co Monaghan; and Killarney Co Kerry. These are the factors that swung it.
