The project in question was funded under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme which is part of the Government’s Action Plan for Rural Development and provides funding for the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure or the necessary maintenance, enhancement or promotion of existing outdoor recreation infrastructure in Ireland.
On 28 May last, I launched the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme for 2018, under three separate measures:
- Measure 1: Small maintenance/promotion of existing infrastructure (maximum grant €20,000)
- Measure 2: Medium scale repair/upgrade and development of new small/medium infrastructure (maximum grant €200,000), and
- Measure 3: Repair/upgrade and development of larger more strategic projects (grant of between €200,001 and €500,000).
I recently announced the allocation of €1.8 million in respect of 128 projects under Measure 1 and over €8 million in respect of 18 projects under Measure 3.
Funding of €421,130 has been allocated to the project referred to by the Deputy under Measure 3 of the scheme. The application was made for the following works, many of which will assist wheelchair users and well as families with young children:
1. A segregated footpath along the park access road.
2. The refurbishment of 2 new pedestrian footbridges across the stream that runs alongside the main car park.
3. Improvements to the main Arrival Point.
4. The introduction of public art features and a new wildflower garden in the vicinity of the arrival point.
5. The positioning of name plaques and heritage panels across the paths network and digitising the trails for an app download.
6. The investment in materials for 3 giant sculptures.
7. Improvements to the Main Entrance to the park.
The specific question of extending the wheelchair walk in the park now or in the future is a matter for the Local Authority, but was not a feature of their application.
Project supported under Measure 3 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme can commence immediately and are expected to be completed during 2019.