Welcome for funding to improve Louth’s rural roads
Some €250,000 in funding has been secured for Local Improvement Schemes in Louth, the Argus has learned
Minister Michael Ring, Minister for Rural and Community Development, has approved over €10 million in funding for Local Authorities under the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) to support the improvement of non-public rural roads.
The funding will allow for the repair and improvement of small roads and laneways leading to local people’s homes and businesses that are not under the normal maintenance of the Local Authorities.
Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick welcomed the announcemnt, saying: ‘I am delighted that €250,000 in funding has been secured for Local Improvement Schemes here in Louth, servicing over 821 km of our rural roads.’
‘ These roads provide vital access to homes and farms as well as amenities such as lakes, rivers or the sea.’
He explained that the Department of Rural and Community Development will provide up to 90% of the funding through the Local Authorities, with the remaining contribution coming from local residents, or local authorities in the case of roads leading to public amenities.
He added that all local authorities will be informed of allocation and will be asked to revert with details of their improvement projects to the Department of Rural and Community Development by March 23rd.
‘Project Ireland 2040 also contains €1 billion extra funding for investment in rural communities through the Department of Rural and Community Development.
This Rural Regeneration Fund will lead to significant investment in rural towns, villages and townlands, meaning greater connectivity and enhanced amenities for rural communities.’