Westmeath skatepark projects example for funding models

Facilities for young people in Westmeath continue to expand with two projects incorporating designated skateboarding facilities. Work undertaken at Kinnegad and Castlepollard was used as an example in the Dáil on how Rural Regeneration and Development Fund can be harnessed to provide facilities.

Although there is no dedicated government funding scheme specifically for local authorities to develop or refurbish skateparks, several existing programmes support such projects, the Dáil was told.

The issue was raised by Sinn Féin TD, Louis O’Hara, who asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, about funding available for local authorities seeking to develop or upgrade skateboarding facilities.

Minister Calleary said skateparks could potentially receive support through a number of rural development programmes. The Town and Village Renewal Scheme has previously supported skatepark projects in Tullow, Robertstown, Dunboyne and Longford.

Of particular interest in Westmeath, the minister said the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) had supported two projects incorporating designated skateboarding facilities, in Kinnegad and Castlepollard.

Other potential funding routes include the CLÁR programme, which supports community facilities and amenities in designated rural areas. The 2026 programme has a €12 million budget.

The minister also pointed to the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, which has €20 million available nationally for 2026-27.

Community groups interested in developing skateboarding facilities can also explore LEADER funding, although the programme does not directly fund local authority projects.