Scoping the creation of Ireland’s first underwater artificial reef in Mayo’s Killala Bay has received a grant of 50,000 euro as one of a number of outdoor projects approved for funding by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys.
Design of a recreational trail linking Cong to Lisloughrey pier has also secured 50,000 euro, while a sum of 35,847 euro has been approved for a feasibility study into a tidal pool on the Aran islands, Co Galway.
A total sum of 2.3 million euro has been approved under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) on improving or developing outdoor amenities such as walkways, cycleways, rivers, lakes and beaches.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys
This funding will be invested in 50 outdoor recreation projects that are currently at the early stage of development, according to Ms Humphreys, with sums of up to 50,000 euros to bring them to a “shovel-ready stage”.
They will then be in a position to secure further funding through the other measures of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, she has said.
Other marine and freshwater projects approved include 47,579 euro for planning and design for water sports opportunities in New Ross and the tidal section of the River Barrow.
A study to identify the potential of the development of Cavan’s Swellan lough as a recreational amenity has been approved for 49,500 euro, while Leitrim and Cavan county councils secured 22,693.50 euro for a feasibility study on a canoe trail on Lough MacNean.
