Six Limerick projects will receive a total of €106,548 in funding towards outdoor recreation amenities as part of the Government’s Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD today (Monday) announced details of the scheme which provides funding for the development, promotion and maintenance of outdoor amenities such as trails, walkways, cycleways, and blueways.
The funding announced under Measure 1 of the Scheme, will support small-scale local projects with funding of up to €20,000 each. It is being announced in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, who are co-funding the projects with the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The successful projects include:
| Lough Gur, Co. Limerick | Lough Gur Ash Point Trail Upgrade | €20,000 |
| Doon, Co. Limerick | Kilmoylan Nature Walk Trail Upgrade | €20,000 |
| Knockfierna, Co. Limerick | Knockfierna Famine Memorial Trail Walks Upgrade and Enhancement | €20,000 |
| Liskennett, Co.Limerick | Liskennett Forest Trails Improvements and Signage | €6,588 |
| Kilfinane, Co. Limerick | Ponna Nature Walk Trail Development | €19,980 |
| Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick | Ballyhoura Trails Guide App Promotion | €19,980 |
Further announcements in respect of medium and large scale projects under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, with funding of up to €200,000 and €500,000 respectively for each project, will be made at a later stage.
Welcoming the funding, Mayor of Limerick City and County, Cllr Michael Collins said the last year has shown more than ever the importance of outdoor amenities for our physical and mental wellbeing.
“There has been a sizable 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,” he said.
"I’m delighted to see that the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme will fund these six projects in Limerick with a particular focus on rural areas. These facilities will be vital to sustain these communities and encourage visitors to County Limerick into the future. I would also like to thank Fáilte Ireland for their support in co-funding this scheme.”
Padraig Malone, Administrative Officer Urban and Rural Community Development, Limerick City and County Council said the funding will be a huge support to the six projects involved: “The successful projects and further investment in trails will be of huge benefit to communities right across the county. The trail enhancements will boost economic and tourism potential in the countryside and facilitate recreational activities while at the same time promote a healthy active lifestyle.”