Community projects will benefit from €145,000

DISADVANTAGED communities in rural and urban areas in Co Louth are to receive €145,000 through the Community Enhancement Programme.

Typical enhancements under the Community Enhancement Programme could include the renovation of community centres, community amenities, improvements to town parks and common areas and spaces, CCTV equipment and energy efficiency projects

Last year, Co Louth received €64,500 under the RAPID Scheme so the allocation represents a significant increase on 2017.

In welcoming the funding, local TD Fergus O’Dowd says this new scheme helps support importantw ork by communities across County Louth. “Some of the funding is ring-fenced for smaller projects, from lawnmowers and IT equipment to minor renovations in buildings,’ says Deputy O’Dowd.

“It also provides funding to contribute to larger projects in disadvantaged areas. We want to support rural Ireland so that it can achieve its full potential across a wide-range of areas.

The funding is provided to Louth County Council and applications for funding can be made to the Local Community Development Committee who will decide on projects in a manner consistent with the Local Economic and Community Plan.”

The Community Enhancement Programme builds on and replaces the Communities Facilities Scheme and the RAPID programme that were launched last year by the Department.

The amalgamated scheme has been put in place following consultation with the 33 Local Community Development Committees across the country. An increased level of funding has been provided to each area.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 30th July 2018.