Investment into two projects of €250,000 and €300,000, has been announced by Failte Ireland as part of the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) programme.
Emo Court Glamping will receive €300,000 for luxury eco glamping huts, including a wheelchair accessible hut.
The Emo Court venture has planning permission for three standalone pod units at the Gate Lodge, which is available to let on Airbnb.
The pods, which consist of two two-bed units and one single disabled access unit, aim to enhance the area as a tourist attraction.
The second grant of €250,000 will go to Making Tracks, whose colourful cabins and traditional horse-drawn wagons are based at Ballybrophy House.
Making Tracks offers ‘a unique opportunity to experience the outdoors in the midlands of Ireland, with all the comforts of home. We provide cabin stays and horse-drawn wagons, allowing you to explore the area in a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere’.
17 total projects have been awarded €2.9 million across the countries in counties such as Offaly, Kildare, and Westmeath among others.
The JTF has been established to provide aid to regions most negatively affected by the move away from Fossil Fuels and towards more sustainable energy sources.
The peat production industry was massive in the Midlands, now with the closures of production, the Wider Midlands communities need more focus, and this fund aims specifically for this goal.
The fund aims to focus on restoring degraded peatlands and industrial heritage assets so local communities can benefits from the gained opportunities economically while taking avail of the amenities.
The two projects set up for Laois, are to be two different glamping sites which are to be sustainable. This is adjacent to the sites bringing in tourists and creating jobs for the locals around the area.
Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) Clare Bannon highlighted that “these 17 projects highlight the significant opportunities arising from investment in tourism”
On top of being good for the community this plan is also aiming to “preserve environmental quality, foster sustainable growth and for the prosperity of the community”.
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