The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, has announced €3 million in funding to improve visitor and recreational amenities at Coillte Forest Parks across Ireland.

This investment is part of a strategic partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte to maintain existing trails and develop new recreational opportunities. The funds will support projects including new walking trails, carpark upgrades, footbridge installations and new toilet facilities.

Speaking at Rossmore Park, Minister Humphreys said: "Adventure tourism continues to go from strength to strength in Ireland. People want to be out and about enjoying our great outdoors whether it’s our beaches, lakes, mountains or of course our wonderful forests.

"We have seen a huge surge in visitor numbers to our forest parks in recent years and I want to see that continue. I’m delighted that my Department is working collaboratively with Coillte so that we can upgrade and improve the experience for visitors.

-- Advertisement --

"If you want to take a break and get some peace and quiet – there is nothing quite like a walk in the forest. There are so many hidden gems on our doorstep in Ireland and I would encourage people to get out and explore them."

Imelda Hurley, Coillte CEO stated: "We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and this important funding will enable us to further enhance the experience for visitors to our recreational forests across the country.

"As Ireland’s largest provider of outdoor recreation, we’re delighted to welcome an estimated 18m visits to our recreational areas from across Ireland and indeed, further afield. Getting out in nature has proven positive benefits for people’s wellbeing and we look forward to further developing our recreational amenities for everyone to enjoy."

Examples of some of the projects being funded include:

• Deerpark, Co Cavan, Design & construction of new car park entrance to Forest - €200,000

• Belleek, Co Mayo: Belleek Wood Pond Rejuvenation Project. - €150,000

• Kilrush Recreation Forest Park, Co. Clare: Trail surface improvements works – €75,000

• Castlegrove, Co Galway: Trail enhancement works - €115,000

• Tibradden, Co Dublin: Carpark Improvement Works - Phase 1 - €80,000

• Donadea Forest Park, Co Kildare: Phase 1 of New Trail - €50,000

• Curragh Chase Forest Park, Co Limerick: Road & Cark Park Resurfacing - €40,000

• Slieve Foye, Co Louth: Recreation infrastructure improvement works - €60,000

• Rossmore Forest Park, Co Monaghan: Installation of new toilets - €49,000

Minister Humphreys also released the 2023 investment programme report, detailing the projects and outcomes funded for Coillte in 2023.