Leitrim trails join national Walks Scheme with €20,000 granted for local upgrades

Several walking trails in Leitrim have been selected to join the national Walks Scheme, while additional trails in the county will benefit from funding for upgrades.

The Walks Scheme supports the development and upkeep of key walking routes by private landholders. It is administered by 22 Local Development Companies on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has announced €465,000 in funding to enhance and upgrade 49 walking trails nationwide on the scheme. In addition, 22 new trails are being added, bringing the total number of participating trails to 164.

In Leitrim, two popular trails - Fowley’s Fall in Rossinver and O’Rourke’s Table in Dromahair - have been newly included in the Walks Scheme. Both of these trails are under the Leitrim Development Company.

As part of this announcement, Leitrim Development Company has also secured funding to enhance two walking trails in the county.

An allocation of €10,000 has been granted for upgrades to Miner’s Way, covering improvements to signage, drainage materials and trail furniture.

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A further €10,000 has been awarded for enhancements to Leitrim Way, which will include trail upgrades, new signage, drainage materials, trail furniture and a reroute around a waterlogged area.

Sligo-Leitrim TD Marian Harkin has welcomed the announcement.

Minister Harkin hailed the news as “a real recognition of Leitrim’s outstanding natural environment and the strong community support that underpins these recreational assets.”

“The inclusion of Fowley’s Falls and O’Rourke’s Table in the Walks Scheme is a testament to the hard work of local communities and landowners who make these walks possible. 

“The €20,000 allocated to improving the Leitrim Way and Miner’s Way trails shows a clear commitment to investing in rural outdoor recreation, supporting tourism, and improving quality of life for our communities,” Minister Harkin said.

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to all involved, especially landowners and the Leitrim Development Company, whose collaboration ensures that our stunning countryside remains open, safe, and inviting for everyone,” Minister Harkin concluded.

“I am pleased to announce the approval in principle for 22 trails to join the Walks Scheme, as well as funding to support the further enhancement of 49 trails already on the scheme,” Minister Calleary said.

“I want to thank the land owners in particular, for providing these opportunities. There is no doubting the health and wellbeing benefits provided by these trails, and the economic impact they can also provide by driving visitor numbers to rural Ireland,” he added.

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