4 days ago
Swimmers and walkers to benefit as €300,000 allocated to Wicklow projects
The eight projects include enhancement works on walking and cycling trails, facilities for swimmers, improvements to signage, provision of parking and trail furniture, improvements to accessibility and support for the marketing and promotion of outdoor recreational facilities.
Among the projects being funded is a strategy and work plan to ensure accessibility for walking, cycling and water access for the disabled community with an allocation worth just under €50,000.
€23,400 will be spent on evaluating the degradation of upland paths and the correlation of footfall and rainfall and their impact.
€36,450 has been ringfenced to replace signage on road crossings throughout the Wicklow Way
Just under €40,000 has also been set aside for the installation of changing screens for swimmers at four locations and three bike shelters.
The funding is being provided as part of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
Wicklow TD Edward Timmins said the funding will make a big difference for outdoor amenities in Wicklow
'I'm particularly delighted to see funding for the Wicklow way at Curtlestown Wood, Wicklow Way signage which I've previously highlighted, the Brockagh Forest science and discovery area, disabled access for the Vartry Anglers, a Wicklow Harbour Sea-Trac to create independent swimming access for those with a physical disability and swimming infrastructure.
'I want to thank the community groups across Wicklow who work so hard to develop and enhance recreational amenities in our local community.'
Wicklow-Wexford TD Brian Brennan has also welcomed the announcement.
'We are extraordinarily lucky to live in a place with such an abundance of natural beauty and it is important that we continue to invest in the infrastructure to ensure that these areas are accessible and open for use.
'Funding provided under this scheme continues to deliver and enhance our recreational offering which is of huge importance to us from a community wellbeing perspective, as well as being a catalyst for tourism in rural areas.
'I want to commend the various community groups who collaborate with key stakeholders to develop and enhance recreational amenities in their locality.' he added.
