Cork Secures €608,550 for Outdoor Recreation Projects

Cork County has been awarded over €600,000 in government funding to enhance outdoor recreational facilities across the region, with projects ranging from sea swimming infrastructure to walkway improvements set to benefit local communities and visitors alike.

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) has allocated €608,550 to County Cork, with Cork County Council receiving €257,250 for six specific projects. An additional €350,300 has been awarded to local development companies for outdoor works in other areas of the county.

The funding will support the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure whilst maintaining and enhancing existing amenities including trails, walkways, cycleways, and blueways throughout rural Cork.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley:

"We are fortunate in County Cork to have so many trails, walkways, and cycleways. They are important for our communities, and Cork County Council has worked hard for many years to improve them. This funding is very welcome and will help us continue to develop these amenities for both locals and visitors."

The largest single allocation of €49,950 will fund design work to Part 8 planning stage for the development of 'the Marsh' recreation area in Skibbereen. A matching amount has been allocated to explore the feasibility of developing a multi-recreational user pontoon at Abbey Pier on Sherkin Island, improving access to the island for various water activities.

Sea swimmers across East Cork will benefit from €77,800 in combined funding for new infrastructure. This includes the installation of slipways with handrails and shelters at Ballynamona and Whitegate beaches, as well as similar facilities at Glenmore and Cuskinny on Great Island. The improvements reflect the growing popularity of year-round sea swimming in Cork's coastal communities.

The Belgooly Walkway will receive €40,000 for essential maintenance work, including replacement fencing between the walkway and Riverstick Estuary, along with the installation of benches and street furniture to enhance the visitor experience.

Hill walkers and hikers will benefit from €40,000 allocated to upgrade and surface the Seefin Car Park, located at the base of Musheramore along the popular Duhallow Way walking route.

The funding forms part of a nationwide investment in outdoor recreation infrastructure, recognising the importance of these amenities for community wellbeing, tourism, and rural development. Cork County Council's successful applications demonstrate a strategic approach to improving accessibility and facilities across diverse recreational activities.

Further information about the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme can be found at gov.ie.