New funding to help boost outdoor activities in Fingal

castleknock

Fingal County Council has welcomed new funding announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD that will help develop outdoor amenities in the County.

The allocation of over €150,000 to Fingal under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) will support advancement of walking trails, beach access and look at the feasibility of a tidal pool. Established in 2016, ORIS provides funding for the development of infrastructure for outdoor recreation to promote healthy lifestyles and adventure tourism throughout rural Ireland.

The funding covers four projects across Fingal:

  • Balbriggan Historical Walking trail: Provision of new off-road waypoints (€28,800)
  • Balbriggan Tidal Pool: Feasibility study for a tidal swimming pool (€50,000)
  • Castleknock: The development of an historical walking trail (€23,400)
  • Balscadden Beach (Universal Access): Feasibility study for the popular secluded beach in Howth (€50,000)

Welcoming the funding, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Howard Mahony, said: “This is wonderful news that will help us progress a number of worthwhile projects in different areas of Fingal. Being able to enhance local amenities for our communities and improve what’s on offer for visitors helps us make Fingal cleaner, greener and healthier for all.

“I am particularly excited to see funding going towards the development of a heritage trail in Castleknock that will leverage the footfall of visitors to Phoenix Park and Farmleigh House and give them an opportunity to experience the natural and built environment that can be found in the area.”

Ethna Felten, Deputy Chief Executive of Fingal County Council commented: “This new funding complements the efforts of the Council to support our towns and villages as they look to encourage people to get out and enjoy the great outdoor locations we have in the County. I look forward to seeing the various projects move forward."

As part of today’s Ministerial announcement, almost €4.3 million will be used to improve some 163 outdoor amenities across the country, with further funding also being invested in 37 outdoor projects that are currently at the early stage of development. The new investment will provide a major boost to local economies by attracting visitors and furthering Ireland's reputation as a destination for adventure tourism.