€350,000 boost for Lough Boora and Midlands trails announced

A MAJOR €350,000 investment to maintain Lough Boora Discovery Park and the wider Midlands Trail Network over the next five years was announced last week.

Fine Gael TD for Offaly, Deputy John Clendennen and Fianna Fáil MEP for the Midlands North-West, Barry Cowen, both welcomed the news.

The funding announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, is part of a new partnership with Bord na Móna to keep these world-class walking and cycling routes in top condition.

Deputy Clendennen said “Lough Boora is one of Offaly’s greatest assets. It’s a place where art, history, and nature come together. This investment guarantees that the park, and the wider trail network, will be maintained to the highest standard so that future generations can enjoy it as much as we do today.”

The funding, part of a new strategic partnership between the Department and Bord na Móna, will ensure the upkeep of walking and cycling routes developed under the EU Just Transition Fund. €30 million has already been approved under the Trail Network Development Scheme to develop 51km of accessible trails across Bord na Móna lands in Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, and Westmeath.

“These trails are a win for tourism, a boost for local businesses, and a fantastic resource for the community,” Deputy Clendennen added. “They will keep Offaly firmly on the map as a destination for outdoor adventure.”

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MEP Cowen said the initiative is designed to build on the investment already being made through the EU Just Transition Fund, which is creating a comprehensive Midlands trail network across BnM’s landbank. The project will make use of BnM’s existing railways, bridges, bog roads, off-road trails and waterways, opening up new landscapes and habitats to walkers and cyclists, he added.

By ensuring the trails are maintained to a high standard, the partnership aims to enhance the tourism offering in the region, support healthy and active lifestyles and create long-term benefits for rural communities, the local Fianna Fáil MEP said. Offaly, which is home to some of the most iconic sections of the network, will see significant benefits from the investment.

The project also reflects BnM’s wider strategy of creating long-term social and environmental value in the Midlands alongside its renewable energy and eco-park developments.

Barry Cowen MEP said: “This is a hugely positive announcement for our region. The Midlands trail network is already transforming how people can experience our unique landscapes and this funding will ensure that investment is protected for the years ahead. I particularly welcome the benefits it will bring to Offaly, where Lough Boora is a jewel in our tourism crown.

“This partnership is a smart way of using resources – it not only promotes healthy outdoor activity but also supports local economies by attracting visitors. It’s an excellent example of joined-up thinking between government, BnM and local communities.

“I want to acknowledge the vision behind the EU Just Transition Fund. Projects like the one announced today form part of building a stronger, more sustainable future for the Midlands,” he said.

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Announcing the funding, Minister Calleary said: “In recognition of the significant investment already being undertaken through the EU Just Transition Fund to create a midlands trail network across BnM’s landbank, my department is entering into a five year strategic partnership with BnM to support the ongoing maintenance of these new trails. The funding will also support a number of trails within the Lough Boora Discovery Park.

“The new trail network, developed under the Just Transition Fund, opens up wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities. This unique opportunity is coming to life through BnM’s network of railways, bridges, bog roads and off-road trails and waterways.”

BnM CEO Tom Donnellan said: “BnM is working with our landbank, strategic partners and local communities to develop our renewable energy infrastructure and deliver on Ireland’s net zero ambition.

“BnM’s partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht is part of our commitment to create long-term social and environmental value for communities in the Midlands in addition to safeguarding Ireland’s renewable energy supply.

“These new amenities will contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the Midlands, alongside BnM’s Eco Energy Park and Renewable Energy projects and I want thank Minister Calleary and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for their support.”

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