50 new projects will each receive funding of up to €50,000 each to bring them to a shovel-ready stage.

A funding boost of €2.3 million was announced this week for the development of 50 new outdoor adventure projects around the country.

The investment under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) will support the preparatory work required to bring large-scale outdoor recreation projects to a shovel-ready stage.

The ORIS plays a key role in plans to enhance outdoor amenities nationwide such as walkways, cycleways, rivers, lakes and beaches.

The 50 projects that are to receive funding are currently at the early stage of development. They will receive funding of up to €50,000 each to bring them to a shovel-ready stage. Once at a shovel ready stage, they will be in a position to secure further funding through the other measures of the ORIS.

The projects being funded include:

  • Killala, Co. Mayo: Scoping the creation of Ireland’s first underwater artificial reef in Killala bay and environmental planning costs – €50,000.
  • Slieve Bearnagh Mountain, Co. Clare: Feasibility study for the development of a Cycling Hub in Slieve Bearnagh – €50,000
  • Linn Taoide Arainn, Co. Galway: Feasibility study for provision of tidal pool on Arainn along the seashore – €35,847
  • Derryounce, Co. Laois: Feasibility study for the potential development of the Derryounce Amenity Area – €44,280
  • Castlerea, Co. Roscommon: Screening, environmental assessments, and preparation for development of Castlerea Riverside Boardwalk – €50,000
  • Bray Head, Co Wicklow: Recreation plan to manage and protect the landscape and ensure safe and appropriate recreation – €45,000
  • New Ross, Co. Wexford: Planning and design for water sports opportunities in New Ross and the tidal section of the River Barrow – €47,579

Announcing the funding, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys said: “We’re now heading into the darker days of winter and it’s more important than ever to make the most of those precious daylight hours by getting out and about when you can.

“The funding will support the further development of our hiking trails, water-based activities, and other amenities, making them even more enjoyable places for families to visit nationwide.

“These amenities are here for us all to enjoy. I would encourage everyone who can to get out and about and make the most of what our countryside has to offer.”