Huge funding announced for Limerick forest parks

Minister Heather Humphreys has announced €3 million in funding to enhance Forest Parks across Ireland with €40,000 allocated to Curragh Chase Forest Park for road and car park resurfacing.

A total of €122,899 has been granted for maintenance works across Limerick. This will go towards general maintenance and hedge cutting in Ballinruan, the replacing of signage in Ballyhoura, car park and trail maintenance in Foynes, and tree surgery and contingency for windblow.

Funding will also be provided for general maintenance in Glenstal and Liskennett, support for ongoing projects in Mountain Meitheal and clear windblow for Multeen.

The investment is part of a strategic partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte to maintain and manage existing trails in Coillte forests, and to develop new recreation opportunities. The funding will be used to deliver a range of projects such as new walking trails, carpark improvements, installation of footbridges and new toilet facilities.

The Top 10 most visited Coillte Parks (non-ticketed) in the country were also announced today with Rossmore Park in Monaghan continuing to be ranked number one with 357,834 visitors in 2023.

 Speaking at Rossmore Park, Minister Humphreys said:

“Adventure tourism continues to go from strength to strength in Ireland. People want to be out and about enjoying our great outdoors whether it’s our beaches, lakes, mountains or of course our wonderful forests.

“We have seen a huge surge in visitor numbers to our forest parks in recent years and I want to see that continue. I’m delighted that my Department is working collaboratively with Coillte so that we can upgrade and improve the experience for visitors.

“If you want to take a break and get some peace and quiet, there is nothing quite like a walk in the forest. There are so many hidden gems on our doorstep in Ireland and I would encourage people to get out and explore them.”

Imelda Hurley, Coillte CEO said:

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and this important funding will enable us to further enhance the experience for visitors to our recreational forests across the country.

‘As Ireland’s largest provider of outdoor recreation, we’re delighted to welcome an estimated 18 million visits to our recreational areas from across Ireland and indeed, further afield. Getting out in nature has proven positive benefits for people’s wellbeing and we look forward to further developing our recreational amenities for everyone to enjoy.”