Warm welcome for funding of west projects
THERE were warm welcomes expressed in the Council Chamber on Monday for a number of funding opportunities awarded to Wicklow clubs, organisations ad projects.
Funding of €3.5 million is to be made available to Baltinglass to transform the existing courthouse complex into a new library and heritage hub for West Wicklow. The funding comprises €2.6 million from the Department of Rural and Community Development with the remainder coming from the coffers of Wicklow County Council.
Under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, Donard Glens Walking Trails - Fauna Loop will receive €7,200 towards the development of a walking trail; Baltinglass Cycle Trails Project will receive €8,800 towards the establishment of a network of marked signage as part of looped cycling trails around Baltinglass; Knockananna Walking Loops will receive €7,840 Development of looped walking trail from the village of Knockananna works include trail infrastructure, signage, map, gates and benches: Wicklow Way Infrastructure upgrade grant of €20,000 towards the upgrade of 10 information trail boards, new signage and repair works and finally €14,720 towards a Wicklow long distance walks video.
Cllr Timmins welcomed the €3.5 million funding for Baltinglass but hoped the project proved good value for money.
‘I want to thank Deirdre Whitfield and all the officials who put this together. It is very welcome. I hope we get value for money as the funding will cover a multitude of items. Who will oversee the expenditure and the various tendering processes that will happen?’ asked Cllr Timmins.
Council Chief Executive, said a meeting on the Baltinglass funding was already arranged to take place the following day. The team overseeing the project come from the library, community and roads departments.
Cllr John Mullen stated: ‘I wish to welcome the walks money, especially the Knockananna Walking Loops, who worked very hard with the recreation officer. A lot of Trojan work went into getting the works over the line.’
Commenting on the funding awarded to Baltinglass, Cllr Patsy Glennon said: ‘compliments to all involved in putting the plan together. These funds are much needed as Baltinglass has been dieing on its feet recently and this funding is badly needed and will be well spent.’