€179k in funding announced for 6 local projects

Minister Peter Burke has announced this morning that €179,000 will be split between six Westmeath projects to support their residents adapt to COVID19.

This is on top of the €100,000 allocated in August to weather-proof four community spaces in Westmeath.

“I am delighted to confirm that Multyfarnham, Killucan/Rathwire, Rochfortbridge, Ballynacargy and Delvin are beneficiaries of this funding, with additional funding to develop a county wide app supporting self-guided tourist trails and walks in different towns and villages in Westmeath”.

Minister Burke has outlined that €25,000 is being allocated to each of Killucan/Rathwire, Delvin, Rochfortbridge and Ballynacargy to develop an accessible outdoor community structures which will include seating, a water system and the purchase of festive lighting.

In Multyfarnham, the same outdoor structure will be developed but with the addition of outdoor gym equipment, to the cost of €39,600. €40,000 will be used to develop an exciting and free app which will mean locals and tourists alike can log in to be given self-guided walks and trails across the county.

The focus of the funding is on measures and interventions that help our communities to adapt to social distancing requirements and to provide safe environments that encourage people into towns and villages to shop and socialise.

“It is clear that the presence of COVID in our society is not as temporary as we may have hoped and this funding will mean that we can continue to mix in our communities while staying safe. Regardless of COVID, these new community features will be great addition to our villages and will offer benefits for years to come.

“Our relationships with our close neighbours and friends on a local basis has never been more important, as well as the need to have appropriate outdoor exercise opportunities. This is really positive and targeted government funding and I am excited to see these structures being developed and used in the short term.