Almost €77k for Cavan outdoor projects
Almost €77,000 in funding has been allocated to the county under the scheme which supports small-scale local projects up to the value of €20,000 each.
Four local projects are to benefit from funding under Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
Almost €77,000 in funding has been allocated to the county under the scheme which supports small-scale local projects up to the value of €20,000 each.
The projects are Ballyconnell/Corraquil (€20,000), UNESCO Geopark (€20,000), Killykeen Forest Park (€19,206), and Barnagrow Lake amenity, Cootehill/Shercock Area (€17,532 ).
The funding for Ballyconnell/Corraquil will allow for the assessment and design of Phase 3 of the proposed Cavan-Leitrim Railway Greenway, while maintenance and repair works will be paid for out of the allocation earmarked for the UNESCO Geopark.
Killykeen Forest Park is set to see the carpark upgraded and the installation of picnic area, and there will be an improvement of facilities at Barnagrow Lake amenity also.
Six projects in neighbouring Co. Monaghan received funding.
Minister Heather Humphreys said the pandemic has shown the importance of our outdoor amenities.
The allocations, announced in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, who are co-funding the projects with the Department of Rural and Community Development, are under Measure 1 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
Successful projects under Measures 2 and 3 will be announced at a later date.
Fáilte Ireland will be investing €4 million in the ORIS scheme over each of the next three years to support the work of local communities in providing well-maintained, easily accessible recreational trails across the country.
“I am delighted to announce funding for these four projects in Cavan and I know it will come as welcome news to the many people who use their amenities,” said Minister Humphreys. “The last year has demonstrated more than ever the importance of amenities for our physical and mental wellbeing.”
Minister Humphreys said there had been a notable increase in the number of people using our walking trails, cycleways, parks and other resources to exercise and keep fit, while respecting the guidelines on social distancing during the COVID-19 crisis.
“I want to acknowledge the support of our partners, Fáilte Ireland, who are once again co-funding the successful projects under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.”
Orla Carroll, Director of Product Development at Fáilte Ireland, added: “Outdoor Recreation will play a vital role in helping tourism businesses throughout Ireland recover from the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Last year, Irish people embraced the outdoors, utilising walking and cycling trails and blueways to explore the natural beauty Ireland has to offer.
Party colleague, TD Brendan Smith also complimented the local groups and the county councils in their work in bringing these projects to this stage. "The development of more walks, trails, and cycle ways enhance considerably community facilities both for local residents and visitors."