Minister Heather Humphreys announces €210,000 to develop and upgrade outdoor recreation projects in Sligo

The investment, under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), will be key to enhancing our mountain trails, forest walks, cycleways, rivers, lakes and beaches.

The allocation of €210,000 for Co Sligo has been warmly welcomed by Sligo Leitrim Fine Gael TD, Frank Feighan to include seven projects that include

Sligo Walks Promotion

Enhanced media marketing and promotion for Sligo Walks, €30,000

Queen Maeve Trail Knocknarea Boardwalk Repairs

Refurbishment works along the eastern route of Queen Maeve Trail, €30,000

Knocknashee Trail Repairs

Upgrading and rehabilitation of the access trail to Knocknashee summit, €30,000

Carns Hill Extension

Extension of the existing Carns Hill recreational walking trail, €30,000

Raghly Loop Trail Upgrade

Enhancement works along the Raghly Loop Trail, €30,000

Maugheraboy Viewing Point

Creation of a trail at Maughearboy, €30,000

County Sligo LEADER Partnership

Ballymote Town Loop

Installation of lighting along Ballymote Loop Trail, €30,000

“This ORIS funding will provide a further boost to the local economy in Sligo by attracting more visitors to our rural communities with enhanced outdoor facilities.

“I again want to thank Minister Humphreys who has always provided very generous funding to Co Sligo and the Northwest, Heather knows the work that local communities and volunteers in partnership with Sligo Leader Partnership Company and Sligo Co Council do locally and this spirit of partnership deserves to be richly rewarded”, concluded Deputy Feighan.

Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said:

“With summer just a couple of months away, I’m really pleased to announce over €4.1 million to develop over 150 outdoor recreation projects right across Rural Ireland.

“The investment I’m announcing today will greatly enhance the natural amenities right on our doorstep - from our walkways, mountain trails and forest walks, to our cycleways, beaches and rivers.

“I believe the projects receiving funding today will play an important role in attracting more visitors to our rural towns and villages.

“So my big message as Minister today is to get out and explore those hidden gems in your community. The clocks are going forward this weekend – a perfect reason to go on that hike or cycle and enjoy the great outdoors.”