Funding has been sanctioned for a number of community improvement projects in the Kilcommon area of north west Mayo.

Announcing the funding, Rural Affairs Minister Éamon Ó Cuív said work would be carried out on the existing North Mayo Coastal Trail, extending its stretch.

A linear cycle route will be developed from Béal an Mhuirthead to Ballycastle, with associated cycle loops, as part of the proposed National Cycle Network.

Improvements will be carried out at visitor facilities at six strategic Nature Watch Points in the Cill Chomáin area.

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Village enhancement schemes for several villages in the area will be undertaken.

The works will involve footpaths, landscaping, lighting and related improvements.

Planning work for the development of the R312 Belmullet to Castlebar road, which is a priority for the wider Erris area, will also be carried out.

These community improvement projects will commence very soon, the Minister said.

It is estimated that these projects will cost up to €750,000, which will be provided by several state bodies, including the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Fáilte Ireland and Mayo County Council.

The projects are phase one of the implementation of a range of transport, education, enterprise, recreation and village enhancement measures identified in a local consultation process carried out by Mayo County Council.

"It is intended to continue to upgrade the social and physical infrastructure of this region over the coming years to ensure that the area has a social and physical infrastructure comparable to any other region in the country," added Mr Ó Cuív.

(PR/KMcA)