€4 million investment in Coillte trails will benefit Offaly sites

FINE Gael TD for Offaly, John Clendennen, has emphasised the importance of the announcement by Minister Dara Calleary TD and Minister of State Jerry Buttimer of a €4 million allocation to Coillte’s trail network in 2025, as part of a five-year, €15 million strategic partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development.

This year’s funding breakdown includes €2 million for general maintenance of 169 recreational sites nationwide, €600,000 for development of new amenities and €1.4 million specifically earmarked for repairs following Storm Éowyn

Deputy Clendennen is a long-standing advocate for the enhancement and upkeep of Offaly’s outdoor infrastructure. He emphasises that high-quality trails are essential both to local wellbeing and to attracting sustainable tourism.

“Our forests trails, pathways and greenways are public assets that foster healthy lifestyles, strengthen community ties and underpin rural economies. Continued investment in maintenance, repair and development ensuring such trails remain safe, accessible and inviting for residents and visitors alike,” stated Deptuy Clendennen.

Several locations have been specifically earmarked for repairs following recent storm damage. The funding forms part of a broader five-year strategic partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte, worth up to €15 million. Amenities across Offaly supported in this round for general maintenance and enhanced visitor experience works include Castletown, Glenafelly & Slieve Bloom MTB (Kinnitty), Durrow Abbey, Glasderry Wood (Coolderry), Golden Grove (Killavilla) and the Slieve Bloom Way.

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“Offaly now boasts more than 20% of Ireland’s trail network across mountain, boglands and canals, reflecting our county’s potential as a premier outdoor destination. I will continue collaborating with all local stakeholders including Coillte, community groups and government to secure further investment and to identify new opportunities for trail development and maintenance across Offaly," concluded Deputy Clendennen.