€546,240 allocated for 2026 Local Improvement Scheme in Offaly

JOHN Clendennen, Fine Gael TD for Offaly has described the announcement of €546,240 for 2026 Local Improvement Scheme in Offaly as a necessary funding boost to upgrade rural roads and laneways providing vital access for homes and farms across rural Ireland.

The scheme provides essential funding for the repair and improvement of non-public rural roads and laneways, ensuring continued access to homes and farms in rural communities.

The LIS scheme was reintroduced in 2017, and administered through local authorities, demonstrating the Government’s sustained commitment to improving rural infrastructure and connectivity.

Announcing the scheme, Minister Calleary said “I am delighted to announce funding of €17.55 million for the Local Improvement Scheme, including a €2 million increase secured in Budget 2026. This scheme will improve hundreds of rural roads and laneways across the country and remains a vital source of funding for roads not normally maintained by local authorities.

It is a fantastic initiative where homeowners and farmers make a small local contribution and Government provides the balance to ensure continued safe access to homes and farms.”

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Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD, welcomed the announcement, highlighting the tangible benefits for rural homeowners and farmers through improvement works carried out by local authorities on rural lanes and non-public roads. Launching the scheme early in the year will enable councils to plan works during favourable weather conditions to maximise delivery on the ground.

Welcoming the announcement, John Clendennen TD said “The Local Improvement Scheme is a scheme I have long advocated for and is hugely important for rural counties like Offaly, where many families and farmers rely on non-public roads and laneways to access their homes and lands. This funding will make a real difference in improving safety, accessibility and quality of life in our rural communities. I am aware there are many applicants that have already engaged with Offaly County Council but would encourage any residents and landowners across Offaly interested in the scheme to engage with Offaly County Council or my office regarding potential projects under the scheme.”

The 2026 Local Improvement Scheme will support improvement works throughout the year, ensuring that as many eligible rural roads and laneways as possible are upgraded in 2026.

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