Community projects celebrate success in Pride of Place awards

Cork City celebrated an evening of success at the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026, with the Hollyhill Knocknaheeny Community Garden named the overall winner in its category.

The initiative by NICHE Community Health Project earned all-island recognition for its outstanding work in climate action, biodiversity, community participation and environmental sustainability.

Graffiti Theatre Company in Blackpool was also recognised with a runner-up award in its category, reflecting its longstanding commitment to community arts, creativity and engagement.

BALANCE Children's Charity, which secured runner-up honours, while Boxing Clever Cork received a special award and Meitheal Mara's Youth Project Bádóireacht was also nominated.

Cork City Council also received the Council Community Engagement Award, recognising the local authority's commitment to fostering strong partnerships with communities and supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, participation and community-led development across the city.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Damian Boylan, said: “The Pride of Place Awards shine a light on the extraordinary work taking place in communities across the island of Ireland, and I am immensely proud to see Cork City represented so strongly among this year's award recipients and nominees.

“These organisations make a real difference to people's lives every day, creating opportunities, promoting inclusion and strengthening community connections.

“On behalf of the people of Cork, I extend my sincere congratulations to all involved. These achievements are a testament to the spirit, resilience and pride that make Cork such a vibrant and inclusive city.”