Eight Offaly projects to benefit from over €300,000 grant allocation

LOCAL TD John Clendennen has described the announcement by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD of over €300,000 in funding for eight projects across Offaly under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) as hugely important for local communities.

The funding will support small-scale repair and development of recreational amenities, as well as preparatory works for larger projects. It delivers on the ambition of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, helping to improve facilities for communities and visitors alike while boosting rural tourism and the local economy.

The eight Offaly projects to receive funding are:

Croghan Hill upgrade works, Upgrade and rehabilitation of the existing access trail to the summit of Croghan Hill: €40,000.

Offaly Way & ancillary loops at Kilcormac and Lough Boora, Small-scale upkeep and repair: €40,000.

Slieve Bloom destination content creation and promotion, Marketing campaign for outdoor recreation in the Slieve Bloom: €36,000.

Slieve Bloom Way & loops at Cadamstown & Kinnitty, Repair works: €40,000.

Camcor River Walking Loop, Fencing, pathway clearing, and signage: €17,538.

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Portarlington bog lane development, Resurfacing and fencing of stretches of existing bog lane to improve access: €35,955.

Clara to Streamstown Cycling & Walking Amenity, Preparatory work for restoration and re-use of the former Clara railway line: €50,000.

Pallas Lake, Fishing and Looped Walk Development, Preparatory work for fully accessible facilities and looped walk: €50,000

Speaking following the announcement, Deputy Clendennen said, “This is fantastic news for Offaly. These projects will make a real difference in improving access to our outdoor spaces, supporting tourism, and enhancing the quality of life for local communities. From the Slieve Blooms to the Camcor River and Pallas Lake to Portarlington, this investment will benefit residents and visitors alike while strengthening our rural economy.

“I want to acknowledge Minister Calleary and Minister Buttimer at the Department of Rural and Community Development, the hard work of Offaly County Council, Offaly Local Development Company, and my Fine Gael Council colleagues working alongside local groups who have helped bring these projects forward. Their commitment to protecting and promoting our natural amenities whilst making them accessible to everyone is key to securing this type of investment.”

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and aims to enhance outdoor amenities such as walking trails, cycleways, mountain access routes, and water-based facilities.

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