Leitrim scores huge funding boost to transform outdoor amenities across the county

Eight projects in Leitrim are set to receive funding to enhance outdoor recreational facilities. A total of €314,648 was announced on August 14 for outdoor projects in Leitrim, provided under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).

The funding will support investments in facilities such as walking trails, cycleways, water-based amenities, and mountain access routes. 

The successful projects in Leitrim include developments, upgrades, and resurfacing works across a variety of locations.

€40,000 will go towards Acres Lake in Drumshanbo for biodiversity landscaping and to develop the car park and surrounding area. €40,000 has also been allocated to Lough Yugan at Dowra for the upgrade of lake amenity site.

The Old Coach Road walking trail in Dromod will receive €16,718 for surface upgrades. Sheemore Walkway in Leitrim Village is set to receive €38,970 for repairs and upgrades, including additional resting areas and biodiversity planting. 

READ NEXT: Leitrim to remember Republican John Joe McGirl at annual commemoration this weekend

Over 1,700 metres of the existing pathway at Barr of Farrow on the Leitrim Way has been allocated €39,960 for upgrades and resurfacing.

In addition, €45,000 will fund the development of a new walking trail at Dromore in Dromahair, while another €45,000 has been granted to explore the creation of a new walking trail from Spencer Harbour to Drumkeeran. 

Lough Melvin will receive €50,000 for planning and assessments to upgrade amenities. Although located in Roscommon but close to the Leitrim border, €50,000 has also been allocated to deliver preparatory works for the development of a greyway between Drumsna Bridge and Jamestown Bridge.

“This new funding is going to make a big difference for outdoor amenities in Leitrim, making them even better for local families and visitors alike. It’s so important to get out and make the most of what our outdoors has to offer,” said Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Frank Feighan.

“I want to thank the community groups across Leitrim who work so hard to develop and enhance recreational amenities in our local community, and work on developing detailed applications,” he added.

READ NEXT: Leitrim TD slams Government as 'scandalous' as energy credits ruled out of Budget 2026

Minister Marian Harkin also welcomed the funding for the enhancement of Leitrim’s amenities, stating that outdoor amenities are “central” to the wellbeing of communities. 

“It is a core part of the tourism offering in local areas and is a source of year-round income to local economies. The funding will enhance some of the best-loved trails and amenities while also creating new opportunities for people to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal,” Minister Harkin said.

Across the country, €8.7 million is being provided for 221 projects, with neighbouring County Sligo receiving €295,000 for seven projects and County Donegal receiving €706,041 for 18 projects.

Locally, Cllr Enda McGloin has welcomed the funding for Lough Yugan at Dowra and for Acres Lake in Drumshanbo. Speaking on Lough Yugan, Cllr McGloin said, “When works are completed here, I hope to see many local families use the Lough Yugan amenity for family walks, picnics, and relaxation, this is a much-needed amenity for the Dowra and Ballinaglera area, and I look forward to its re-development.”

He acknowledged Christina Loughlin and her committee for developing the application in association with Leitrim County Council.

READ NEXT: WHAT'S ON: Discover a range of exciting events in Leitrim in honour of National Heritage Week

Commenting on Acres Lake, Cllr McGloin said, “Soon the new service block will be completed there and with this further funding I look forward to a very beautiful and enhanced amenity for visitors and natives alike in 2026.”