Funding of over €408,000 has been announced to upgrade of 43 walking and hiking trails across rural Ireland under the Government's Walks Scheme.

The scheme will be provided to resurface, re-route and improve outdoor trails to benefit local communities, tourists, walkers and hikers alike. Trail surfaces, drainage, waymarking and signage, will all be improved under the funding.

Additionally, it will provide seating, picnic spots, and recreational zones, alongside rerouting select trails to enrich the experience of visitors. These projects are undertaken collaboratively with landowners, Local Development Companies, Community Trail Management Organisations and other relevant stakeholders.

Under the Walks Scheme, funding is provided to farmers and other landholders to maintain the trails that cross their land.

The successful projects announced include:

•Hymany Way, Forum Connemara: Resurface trail and install drainage - €10,000

•Dingle Way, North East West Kerry Development: Path upgrade, installation of new trail head map board in Tralee and installation of a self-closing pedestrian gate. - €10,000

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•Leitrim Way, Leitrim Development Company: Resurface trail, drainage and installation of a bog bridge, 2 picnic benches and a stile. - €10,000

•Multeen Way, South Tipperary Development Company Ltd: Resurface trail and install drainage - €10,000

•Western Way, South West Mayo Development Company: Replacement of damaged wooden bridge with galvanised version - €10,000

•Wicklow Way, County Wicklow Partnership: Resurface trail and install reverse grade waterbars to assist drainage - €10,000

•Sheep’s Head Way, West Cork Development Partnership: Upgrade of signage on trail and improving trail at Gortnakilla & Funeral Path - €10,000

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, said:

"There is no better way of seeing our beautiful countryside than to use the many trails and walkways that are dotted around the country. These trails, many of which were created by volunteers and community groups, need to be cherished and maintained, so they can continue to be enjoyed by all.

"These projects will also see investment into the local economy as they are carried out by small contractors using materials from local suppliers. This funding, along with my recent announcement of 62 new trails joining the Walks Scheme, underpins my Department’s continuing commitment to invest in rural Ireland in line with 'Our Rural Future'.

"The collaboration between community groups and Local Development Companies behind the upgrade and enhancement of these trails is wonderful to see and I commend everyone for their great work."

In addition to the recent approval of 62 new trails joining the Walks Scheme, this funding will support the expansion of outdoor recreation throughout rural Ireland. It will deliver high-quality recreation opportunities, aligning with the core objectives outlined in the 'Embracing Ireland's Outdoors' National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023 – 2027.