Community
Limerick Greenway and Fullers Folly Receive €13.5M in RRDF Funding
Economic Boost for the County as Limerick Greenway and Fullers Folly Receive €13.5M in RRDF Funding. Photo: Brian Arthur
Limerick City and County Council welcomes the approval of more than €13.5M in funding for two development projects in County Limerick, Limerick Greenway and Fullers Folly receive €13.5M in Funding
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced funding in excess of €9.6M, from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), to enhance the visitor experience on the hugely successful Limerick Greenway.
The Limerick Greenway Hubs Development Project will allow Limerick City and County Council to build on the success of the greenway and leverage the world class walking and cycling experience with the creation of mini destinations at the four hubs of Ardagh, Newcastlewest, Barnagh and Abbeyfeale. Each hub will have its own unique visitor experience and facilities attracting a broader audience both locally and further afield.
A further €3.9M in RRDF funding has been granted for the refurbishment of the historic Fullers Folly building and courtyard in Newcastle West. Limerick City and County Council intend to enhance and support the heritage and tourism offering in the town, at Desmond Castle, by creating a gateway to this important asset through the Fullers Folly site. Working in partnership with the Office of Public Works, this project will link the town’s tourism assets in a coherent manner, improving the visibility and the overall visitor experience in Newcastle West.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell welcomed the funding announcement, saying: “I want to thank Minister Humphrey’s and her department for awarding over €13.5M in RRDF funding to these two worthy projects, heralding in a new era of tourism development in County Limerick. This investment will enhance the Limerick Greenway experience, drawing visitors from near and far to explore our picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities. The funding for the Fullers Folly project in Newcastle West also marks a significant milestone in our efforts to preserve and promote the rich heritage in our county capital.”
Deputy Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council, Gordon Daly, says the projects will have wide reaching benefits for County Limerick: “This investment in the Limerick Greenway Hubs Development Project and the refurbishment of Fullers Folly, will not only enhance the tourism infrastructure but also create meaningful opportunities for our local communities. These projects will serve as catalysts for economic growth, cultural preservation, and community pride, ensuring that our towns and villages thrive as vibrant destinations for both residents and visitors alike.”
Minister Humphreys announced funding totalling €164 million for 30 landmark regeneration projects across the country.
The investment is being provided under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) with a particular emphasis on the revitalisation of rural town centres, which is a key objective of the Our Rural Future and Town Centre First Policies.
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