Cycling and dark skies benefit from outdoor recreation funds

FIVE Kerry projects are to share almost €80,000 in funding from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure scheme, it has been announced.

The successful projects include supporting the cycling route from Listowel to Kenmare; purchasing specialised beach wheelchairs for north Kerry beaches including Ballyheigue, Fenit and Ballybunion; and the installation of bicycle stands in the parks in Listowel.

Among the projects to be supported in the scheme is the

Old Butter Road in Rathmore, which will receive €20,000 for resurfacing and signage

A sum of over €9,300 has been allocated to purchase beach wheelchairs for use at Ballybunion, Fenit, Ballyheigue, Rossbeigh and Maharees.

Over €12,000 has been earmarked for the installation of fixed dark-sky meters and mobile meters for the international Dark Sky Reserve in the Iveragh Peninsulala.

Signposting the Eurovelo Route from Listowel to Kenmare has been allocated €20,000, while €16,000 has been awarded for the installation of bicycle stands with coverings in the Childrens’ Parks and Woodlands in Listowel.

According to Kerry-based senator Paul Coghlan, there was no doubting the importance of these projects for the wellbeing and quality of life of local residents.

“The funding awarded will support small-scale local projects for investment in outdoor recreation facilities and the promotion of existing recreation infrastructure and I know this will make a big difference to local people.”