The 2026 Community Water Development Fund is now open for applications, with community groups across Leitrim encouraged to put forward projects aimed at protecting and enhancing local water bodies.
The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) officially launched the 2026 funding call this week, inviting applications from community and voluntary groups in Leitrim and nationwide.
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Funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and administered by LAWPRO, the scheme supports local initiatives designed to improve rivers, lakes, streams and coastal waters, while boosting biodiversity.
Eligible project types include the restoration of riparian buffer zones, nature-based flood alleviation measures such as rain gardens, removal of invasive species like Himalayan Balsam and Japanese Knotweed, and surveys or action plans focused on water and biodiversity protection.
Since its introduction in 2017, the fund has become a key support for grassroots environmental work. Commenting on this year’s call, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan, TD, said the scheme has “grown into an essential support for communities across Ireland with a passion for improving water quality in their local area.”
“We are proud to continue to provide funding for vital projects that will bring about improvements in water quality both locally and nationally,” he said.
LAWPRO Director of Services Anthony Coleman said the organisation is “delighted” to launch the 2026 fund after awarding more than €1 million in grant aid last year.
“This fund is central to LAWPRO’s work with communities,” he said. “Through it, LAWPRO gives groups across Ireland the ability to create healthier rivers, lakes and coastal waters in their communities.”
In 2025, a total of €1,047,265.26 was allocated to 54 projects across 24 counties. Leitrim received €6,600 for a local water-quality initiative.
The 2026 scheme is open to all community and voluntary groups working to protect, restore or raise awareness of water quality in their local areas and wider catchments. The deadline for applications is 20th January 2026.
Guidelines and application forms can be downloaded at www.lawaters.ie/cwdf.
