DONEGAL is set to benefit from €42,500 in funding aimed at enhancing 13 walking trails across the county.
This initiative forms part of a nationwide scheme led by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, which will distribute a total of €1 million to upgrade 517 walking trails throughout Ireland.
The funding will support local groups in purchasing necessary equipment, conducting small-scale maintenance, and promoting the registered trails to attract both locals and tourists.
Minister Charlie McConalogue, pictured below, welcomed the allocation of funds and highlighted the importance of keeping these trails in good condition.
“This grant funding will be used towards the cost of purchasing equipment, small scale maintenance and marketing and promotion of the registered trails,” he said.
“Donegal has many popular walking trails and it’s important that these are maintained on a regular basis.”
In addition to maintaining these trails, McConalogue encouraged locals to explore their nearby walking routes, which he described as providing an “enjoyable experience for our domestic population and visitors.”
The Donegal trails benefiting from this investment are located across the county, ranging from coastal paths to historic routes.
Some of the walking trails include the Arranmore Blueway, Ballybofey and Stranorlar, Ballyliffin, Clonmany and Urris, the Bluestack Way, and the Burtonport Old Railway Walk.
These trails will receive varying amounts of funding, with the Bluestack Way Committee being allocated the largest sum of €15,000.
Other groups, such as the Creevy Community Group and Dunfanaghy Tidy Towns, will receive smaller allocations to help maintain and promote their trails.
Trails such as the Muckish Mountain route, the Leghowney Loop Walk, and the Glenevin Waterfall Walk will benefit from upgrades.
The allocation of €42,500 to Donegal’s walking trails is part of a broader effort to develop rural communities, promote healthy living, and boost tourism.
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