Outdoor recreation funding for five Meath projects
Five Meath projects are among the 128 projects nationwide to benefit from funding of €1.8 million announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring TD today under Measure 1 of the 2018 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
The scheme is part of the Government’s Action Plan for Rural Development and provides funding for the development and maintenance of outdoor amenities such as greenways, blueways and other trails. The grants relate to small local projects, with funding of up to €20,000 being provided for maintenance works and the promotion of existing recreation infrastructure.
In Meath, the maximum grant of €20,000 has been allocated to the Whitewood Lake Regeneration Project for maintenance, enhancement and promotion of the existing recreational infrastructure at Kilmainhamwood. Other projects in Meath to benefit include: €16,000 to Ribbontail Paddlers Canoe Club for a modular type changing facility on the clubhouse site in Longwood; €15,333.68 for Rathcairn Amenity Park for maintenance, improved access through automation, information display and signage; €8,000 for the Ashbourne Tidy Towns Broadmeadow River project for river information boards, good behaviour guidance and additional seating; and €524.02 for Meath East Coast Walkway repairs.
Making the announcement, Minister Ring said: “Recreational tourism is a growing sector in Ireland's tourism offering, and we have seen an increase in the number of Irish and overseas visitors enjoying the many greenways, blueways and walking trails which have been developed around the country in the last few years.
“I am very happy to announce today’s funding of €1.8 million for 128 local projects around the country. These projects will enhance existing recreational facilities for the benefit of the communities who use them every day, and also for the many tourists who enjoy visiting our rural areas. Projects approved under this Measure include the upgrading of surfaces on walking trails, improvements to route signage, the development of promotional materials, and the provision of bicycle stands, to name just a few.
“Improved recreational facilities significantly enhance the quality of life for people who live close to the projects and also support sustainable economic development in rural areas. We have seen this time and again with the projects supported by this scheme since its introduction in 2016."