€706,041 in funding allocated for 18 outdoor recreation projects in Donegal

A total of €706,041 in funding has been allocated for 18 outdoor recreation projects in Donegal.

This was announced under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) by Minister Dara Calleary. The funding for Donegal is part of a nationwide allocation of €8.7 million for 221 recreational-based projects.

Amongst the recreational projects for Donegal is the Dungloe River and Cope Mountain Looped Walk, which will receive €40,000 to improve and further enhance the trail, providing safer access and greater accessibility for users.

Another key project is Creggan Woods in Stranorlar, awarded €40,000 to extend and consolidate the existing path network and create a looped walk with seating and signage. In addition, Lough Dhún Lúiche Trail Development has been allocated €49,926 to explore the potential of an off-road link along Lough Dhún Lúiche to Errigal Mountain and the Poison Glen.

Other Donegal projects benefitting include improvements at Batts Walk in Rathmullan, enhancement works on Tory Island, upgrades at Glenlee Forest in Killybegs, and preparatory work for the development of a Blueway for the small Donegal islands.

Speaking on what this funding offers for Donegal, Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher said: “I am delighted this morning to welcome funding to the tune of over €706,000 for County Donegal. The inclusion of recreational projects such as the Dungloe River and Cope Mountain Looped Walk, Creggan Woods in Stranorlar, and the Lough Dhún Lúiche Trail will ensure we can enhance these much-loved amenities and, in essence, support their promotion throughout our county.

“Funding allocations under this scheme have already made a sizeable difference. When I visit these recreational spaces around Donegal, you can see the positive effect the investment has had - giving them a vibrancy and new life. These spaces are essential for Donegal as they promote local tourism and show off the very best of our county.

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“Investment in recreational projects such as these has major positive impacts for the wellbeing of the community and boosts local tourism and business. I am delighted to see this investment that was announced by my colleague, Minister Dara Calleary, for Donegal. It is essential, especially in rural Ireland, that we continue to enhance these spaces. Investment in these projects will showcase the best of what our beautiful county has to offer, whilst boosting local tourism and local enterprises.”

Senator Nikki Bradley said: “This new funding is going to make a big difference for outdoor amenities in Donegal, making them even better for local families and visitors alike. It’s so important to get out and make the most of what our outdoors has to offer.

“I want to thank the community groups across the county who work so hard to develop and enhance recreational amenities in our local community. These amenities are here for us all to enjoy.”

The Full list of Donegal projects funded under ORIS 2024/25 is as follows: Promotional material and app for Árainn Mhór - Ailt an Chorráin Blueway - €16,200; Batts Walk, Rathmullan -€40,000; Creggan Woods, Stranorlar - €40,000; County-wide trailhead information panels - €40,000; Dungloe River and Cope Mountain Looped Walk - €40,000; Glenlee Forest Trail, Killybegs - €40,000; Golan Pad, Milford - €40,000; Drummonaghan Wood Trail Development - €30,645; Lakes Loop, Inishowen - €40,000; Sharagore Wetland Trail - €27,270; Stragill Trailhead Works - €40,000; Siúlóid Abhainn an Chaitinn - €40,000; Glengesh Trails - €50,000; The Steeple Walk and Maullaghagarry Wood, Ballybofey/ Stranorlar - €50,000; Tory Island Trail Development - €50,000; Lough Dhún Lúiche Trail Development - €49,926; Development of Blueway for the Small Donegal Islands - €42,000; Angling access for disabled and less abled angler in Donegal - €36,000.