Minister for Rural and Community Development, local TD Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced funding of over €367,000 to develop and enhance over 150 outdoor recreation projects. The investment, under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), will be key to enhancing our mountain trails, forest walks, cycleways, rivers, lakes and beaches. It will also provide a boost to local economies by attracting more visitors to our rural communities. Up to €30,000 will be invested in each project under today’s round of funding – with a focus being placed on small scale enhancements, upgrades and repairs.
The projects in Monaghan being funded are:
- Mullyash Walking Loop: Development of a 7.9km standalone walking loop - €30,000
- Upgrading of Pathways Dromore West - €30,000
- Installation of signage at Rossmore Park - €30,000
- Development and upgrade of existing angling facilities Lough Nagarnaman - €30,000
- Development of an outdoor sensory space adjacent to the existing playpark in Lough Muckno Park - €30,000
- Enhancement works at Drumate Lake, Newbliss - €30,000
The projects in Cavan being funded are:
- Dun an Ri Forest Park: Improvement works to the main entrance - €30,000
- Killeshandra Town Lake Amenity Upgrade: Refurbishment works at The Strand, Town Lake - €23,818
- Bike Repair Station Network for County Cavan: To deliver a network of bike repair stations across County Cavan - €28,350
- Cavan Burren Park Upgrade: Upgrade works to Cavan Burren Park - €30,000
- Upgrade works at strategic Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark sites - €25,843
- The installation of a wheelchair accessible angling stand at Lough Sillan - €26,048
- Installation of boardwalk and signage on Lough an Leagh - €23,068
Speaking to Northern Sound, Minister Humphreys said; "With summer just a couple of months away, I’m really pleased to announce over €4.1 million to develop over 150 outdoor recreation projects right across Rural Ireland. The investment I’m announcing today will greatly enhance the natural amenities right on our doorstep - from our walkways, mountain trails and forest walks, to our cycleways, beaches and rivers.
"I believe the projects receiving funding today will play an important role in attracting more visitors to our rural towns and villages. So my big message as Minister today is to get out and explore those hidden gems in your community. The clocks are going forward this weekend – a perfect reason to go on that hike or cycle and enjoy the great outdoors."
