Just under €700,000 in funding has been confirmed for two Laois projects under the Government’s Outdoor Recreational Investment Scheme.
The Durrow Community/Family Cycle Trails have been the big winner having been awarded €492,750 while the Triogue Way in Portlaoise have been awarded €200,000.
The funding comes under the Government’s ambitious Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors Strategy.
This funding is to support recreational amenities to encourage outdoor pursuits such as walking, looped trails, and cycling.
Triogue Way Recreational Enhancement – The provision of recreational enhancements on the Triogue Way to encourage increased use of this walking and cycling trail- €200,000.
Durrow Community/Family Cycle Trails – Upgrade of existing walking routes into two looped cycle and walking trails suitable for multi-use outdoor recreation – €492,750.
Welcoming the funding of €692,750 Laois Deputy Flanagan said: “The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme provides funding for the development of new and existing outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas.
“Laois has benefitted greatly from this scheme which has been crucial to the development of the recreational facilities enjoyed by many, in recent years.
“We have an abundance of natural beauty here in Laois as well as many excellent tracks and trails, thanks in no small part to the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
“The past number of years has seen a renewed appreciation of the benefit of the outdoors. Spending time outdoors supports our mental and physical health, and it improves our quality of life.”
The news has also been warmly welcomed by Fine Gael councillor John King from Rathdowney. “It is fantastic to see such a level of funding for Durrow,” said Cllr King.
“The last number of years have seen an increased value of the benefit of spending time outdoors, which provides massive benefits to our mental and physical help and improves the quality of life. This funding is a major boost and will further improve the good facilities that are already in place in the Durrow vicinity.”
“This is very welcome funding for these Laois projects. This funding will support these projects and benefit the local communities in Durrow and Portlaoise, with enhanced local outdoor facilities,” added Minister Sean Fleming following the announcement.
“These walking trails and outdoor activities are great places to visit for the local community and provide great places go to for a walk, run or cycle.
“It is important that people make the most of these local amenities which are places that families can visit and spend time in the outdoor fresh air close to nature.”
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