All commitments in respect of allocating funding to local authorities to improve public spaces for cultural and events activity have been met. I launched the Outdoor Public Space Scheme on 11 February 2021. The scheme provides up to €250,000 for each of the 31 local authorities to adapt, equip or otherwise improve public spaces for cultural and events activities taking account of the needs of local arts and entertainment communities. More details are available here upgrading https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/14d5d-re-imagining-our-outdoor-public-spaces/
My Department has already awarded a grant of €250,000 to Carlow County Council to develop a covered open space in the centre of Carlow Town at Potato Market, in the old Tully’s Yard, called The Carlow Exchange. Carlow County Council envisages that the space will be used for Cultural, Economic, Community, and Social Activities, providing an accessible and inclusive space for everyone to enjoy.
The rate at which the funding will be awarded and drawn down is set by local authorities as they develop plans and undertake engagement with local arts communities. For this reason, there is no closing date at present for the scheme.
