Money ahead for Laois natural amenities as new plan approved

Laois could be in line for more walking trails, cycling paths and water amenities, with the approval of a new action plan to win some of the €1.6bn in government grants.

Laois county councillors have approved the first Laois Outdoor Recreation Plan, a five year plan to responsibly develop the county's natural outdoor offerings in eco friendly ways to increase people's health and bring tourism.

Laois County Council will be collaborating with Coillte, the OPW, Bord na Móna, Waterways Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Laois Partnership Company, Laois Tourism and Laois Sports Partnership to get projects built.

A forum and a committee will now be set up to drive the targets set out in the plan, with the slogan of 'Outdoors Every Day, Everyone'.

Townsend family cycling the Barrow Way on Bike Week from Vicarstown to Dilly Dally Coffee stop, Churchtown. Photo:Michael Scully

Ann Marie Maher is the Laois Sport and Leisure Officer.

"It's a very important funding document. It will guide the development of outdoor recreation in Laois up to 2030. The Government has committed €1.6bn to date and there is more to come," she said.

The plan was written in consultation with Laois tourism bodies and clubs over a three month period, and using feedback from people on site in places like the Grand Canal in Vicarstown and the Slieve Bloom mountains.

It will have its own website with a site map, using ORIS funding. Its aims include increased awareness of amenities and responsibility outdoors, better accessibility, identification of off-road cycle routes, developing outdoor programs in schools and supporting existing clubs, with an annual funding stream.

Cllr John Joe Fennelly approved the draft plan at the December council meeting.

"This is a major plan for the county for the years ahead. Would Ballinakill swimming pool come into this?" he asked.

Ms Maher answered that while the fund is for natural amenities only, canoeing or scuba diving lessons could be held in the outdoor pool in Ballinakill, while the town's walking and fishing facilities will be eligible for funding.

Cllr John King seconded the new plan and urges 'buy-in' from farmers for walks.

A summary in the plan says that it aims to "continue to maintain and develop our forests, hills, rivers, urban and countryside parks, lakes and canals while respecting our natural landscape and supporting responsible outdoor recreation.

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It aims to ensure that those living, working and visiting County Laois will benefit from the many existing and potential outdoor recreation amenities and programmes. These benefits are for everyone regardless of their physical, social or economic status."

It is in line with the Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors 2023–2027 plan.