Major funding boost announced for Leitrim outdoor trail adventures

A total of €700,000 in funding has been announced for outdoor recreation schemes in Leitrim. 

The funding will support two projects in the county and is part of a wider €16.5 million investment to deliver 63 projects nationwide through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).

In Leitrim, a Leitrim Development Company project, the further development of the Bóthar Na Naomh trail and its extension to Cloone GAA Park and Creigharee Ancient Holy Well, will receive a further €200,000. 

This ongoing project will extend the trail past Cloone GAA Park to Creigharee Ancient Holy Well.

Leitrim County Council’s project, the Dromod-Rooskey Greenway Construction, involves a 1.95 km long greenway along the L1601, linking the villages of Dromod and Rooskey. 

It is receiving €500,000 to support strategic repair and maintenance of existing facilities, as well as the development of new recreational infrastructure.

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Local councillor Sean McGowan has welcomed the half a million in funding for the greenway construction. 

“It’s something that has been ongoing for a long number of years. We had a part eight planning in place last September which was a big bonus so the project is shovel ready.

“There’s great enthusiasm in the Dromod Development Association and Rooskey Development Association,” Cllr McGowan said.

It is anticipated that works will commence in the summer of 2026. “It’s great news for both villages,” he added.

Three projects in Sligo are set to benefit from a total investment of €801,000. 

The funding announcement was made by Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer TD, and Minister Dara Calleary.

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Locally, TDs have welcomed the investment in Leitrim amenities. Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan congratulated Leitrim Development Company and Leitrim County Council for their submission of “interesting and strategic projects.” Deputy Feighan commented that the projects will enhance existing outdoor facilities and provide new attractions for local residents, while also giving visitors another reason to explore Leitrim in the future.

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Marian Harkin TD, said, “The Bóthar Na Naomh extension will create a truly special link between heritage, spirituality, and community recreation. It’s a wonderful example of how rural development funding can celebrate local identity while supporting outdoor wellbeing. 

“I am more than pleased to welcome this funding announcement, which represents a real investment in the wellbeing of our communities and the sustainable development of our natural assets.”