Five rural community projects across county receive funding

SEVERAL rural communities in County Wicklow have received funding under the 2019 Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

Five projects across the county have been allocated funding worth over €250,000. The scheme aims to make small rural towns and villages more attractive and sustainable places for people to live and work.

Aughrim will receive €95,600 for the development and upgrade of age friendly amenities in the village.

€29,600 has been allocated for the development of a Greenway feasibility study and a Public Realm Urban Design Plan in Delgany. While €80,000 has been allocated for the enhancement of the streetscape in Redcross.

Welcoming the funding for Redcross and Aughrim, Cllr Pat Kennedy (FF) said he was ‘delighted’ by the allocation.

‘We held a meeting of the municipal district in Redcross last March. One of the things that the local community wanted to convey to us was the need for improvements in the village.

‘In relation to Aughrim, the community is very active. Residents in Aughrim are always trying to do more. I was delighted to be able to help to secure this funding for these communities.’

Meanwhile, Coolkenno will receive €24,000 for the installation of new lighting and handrails in the community field. A further €20,973 has been allocated for the creation of a walking trail along the route within the village of Dunlavin and the surrounding area.

Cllr Avril Cronin (FG) said, ‘the walking trail will be a huge asset to the town and will allow both locals and visitors to the area to learn more about the unique history we have here in Dunlavin. Within walking distance, you have the market house, the graveyard at Market Square, the Dunlavin Green to name but a few. Each of these landmarks offers an insight into our local history here in Dunlavin.’

Across the Wicklow-Carlow border, €99,727 will go towards the construction of a footpath and playground, the installation of school solar signs, street lights and painting works in Hacketstown.

A total of 156 rural towns and villages nationwide will share €15 million in funding under the 2019 scheme announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring.