€262,500 in funding announced for nine outdoor projects in Mayo

Mayo TDs have welcomed the announcement of €262,500 worth of funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.

The Mayo projects that have been awarded funding are:

• Brickens Toms Lane Trail: €30,000 for drainage works

• Old Head to Louisburgh trail: €30,000 to upgrade and improve an old path linking Louisburgh town with Old Head

• Cross Beach access: €30,000 for the development of a safe access ramp onto the beach

• Carrowteige Loop Walks: €30,000 for improvements to the walks

• Breaffy loop walk: €30,000 for upgrade works to the walk at Kincon

• Urlaur Lake: €30,000 for the provision of a new fishing and disability access platform at the lake

• Calicaun Bay Trail and Viewing Point: €30,000 for phase two enhancement works to create a universally accessible trail

• Tochar Phadraig St Patrick’s Pilgrim Paths: €22,500 for upgrade and maintenance of the paths

• Foxford Way Looped Walks: €30,000 for improvements works at Cullonaughton

Alan Dillon, TD, has stated that these funds will be directed towards the creation of new outdoor recreational facilities and the upkeep, enhancement, and promotion of existing amenities at various lakes, beaches, and walking trails throughout Mayo.

He said: “As summer approaches, this investment, under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), will be instrumental in enhancing our mountain trails, forest walks, cycleways, rivers, lakes, and beaches. The projects funded today are expected to play a crucial role in drawing more visitors to our rural towns and villages.

“This funding is part of a larger €4.1 million investment announced by my colleague Heather Humphreys, Minister for Rural and Community Development, aimed at developing and upgrading over 150 outdoor recreation projects.

“Each project under today’s funding round will receive up to €30,000, with an emphasis on small-scale enhancements, upgrades, and repairs.

Deputy Michael Ring also welcomed the funding announcement.

“I am delighted that this funding has been allocated to upgrade these walks and trails. Mayo has an abundance of natural amenities and established walking trails. The enhancement and upgrade works being funded will provide a boost to these local economies by attracting visitors and furthering Mayo’s reputation as a destination for adventure tourism. I would encourage everyone to make the most of what our county has to offer,” concluded Deputy Ring.