Ballyhoura Development has been successful in a bid for funding under the National Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), as part of a nationwide investment of €8.7 million announced by Minister Dara Calleary TD.
The funding will support a series of projects to enhance outdoor recreation in the Ballyhoura region in County Limerick:
1. Off-Road Connection between Griston Bog and Ballylanders
A total of €50,000 has been awarded under the Project Development Measure of ORIS to support screening and consultation for an off-road trail linking Griston Bog and Ballylanders, aimed at enhancing access to one of County Limerick’s most valued natural amenities.
John Kennedy, Chairperson of Ballyhoura Heritage and Environment, the Trail Management Body for the Ballyhoura area, welcomed the announcement: “We’re thrilled to see this initiative moving forward. Griston Bog is a unique ecological site, and improving access while protecting its biodiversity is a win for both locals and visitors and will and encourage more people to explore the natural beauty of our area.”
2. Promotion and Marketing of the Ballyhoura Trail Network
Funding has also been secured under ORIS for the promotion and marketing of the Ballyhoura Trail networkto help increase participation in outdoor recreation across the area.
Margaret Atalla, Chairperson of Ballyhoura Fáilte said ‘’the funding will help increase visibility of the Ballyhoura product and support local trail online content creation, promotion and marketing’’.
3. Community Bike Pump Trails Development
An allocation of funding was also received to undertake consultations and an assessment of site location and screening for the development of a network of community bike pump trails in villages and towns in the hinterland of the Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Park.
Mike Cleary, Rural Recreation Officer with Ballyhoura Development commented: “This funding is a testament to the strength of community collaboration across the Ballyhoura area. The development of pump tracks will open up new opportunities for people to develop bike skills and increase mountain bike trail use”.
The ORIS funding supports small-scale enhancements such as trail surfacing, signage, and planning for future development. It aligns with the goals of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy – Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, and the Government’s Our Rural Future policy.
Minister Calleary emphasised the importance of outdoor investment for physical and mental health, community development, and tourism. Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD praised the collaborative efforts of local groups in delivering high-quality recreational amenities.
