Almost €50,000 in funding allocated to Kildare forest parks and walking trails

Almost €50,000 in funding has been allocated to forest parks and walking trails in County Kildare.

The government has today announced €3 million funding to develop over 300 forest parks, walking trails and outdoor amenities across the country.

Some €2 million will be invested in improving and maintaining 280 recreational facilities on Coillte-owned lands right across the country, and a further €1 million will be used to deliver 25 new outdoor projects such as walking trails, loops, boardwalks, ecotrails and carpark facilities.

The investment is part of a Strategic Partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte that is designed to boost rural tourism and local economies.

In Kildare, a total of €49,536 will be invested in outdoor trails and amenities.

It includes €28,800 to install new benches, fell dangerous trees and maintain existing trails at Donadea Forest Park, some €10,368 for an upgraded car park at Maddenstown, some €5,760 for the upgrading of walking trails for Mullaghreelan and €4,608 for the removal and replacement of old barbed wire at Moore Abbey. 

Senator Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fáil) welcomed the announcement.

The news was welcomed by Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, who said: "I’m delighted that Kildare is set to receive almost €50,000 for forest parks and walking trails.

"More than half of the funding will go towards the maintenance of Donadea Forest Park; this is hugely welcome."

She continued: "Kildare has beautiful walking and cycling trails and encouraging people to get out and enjoy them is hugely beneficial not only for their physical health but their mental health too.   

"These upgrade works are also good for the local economy as the improved amenities will entice more visitors to the area."

Senator O'Loughlin concluded: “This funding is further proof that Fianna Fáil in Government is delivering for rural communities."