EIGHTEEN outdoor recreation projects and walks across Donegal are to benefit from over €700,000 in funding announced this morning.

The allocation of €706,041 for Donegal is part of a nationwide allocation of €8.7 million for 221 recreational-based projects through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).

Amongst the recreational projects for County Donegal is the Dungloe River and Cope Mountain Looped Walk, which will receive €40,000 to improve and further enhance the trail, providing safer access and greater accessibility for users. 

Another key project is Creggan Woods in Stranorlar, awarded €40,000 to extend and consolidate the existing path network and create a looped walk with seating and signage. 

In addition, Lough Dhún Lúiche Trail Development has been allocated €49,926 to explore the potential of an off-road link along Lough Dhún Lúiche to Errigal Mountain and the Poison Glen.

Other Donegal projects benefitting include improvements at Batts Walk in Rathmullan, enhancement works on Tory Island, upgrades at Glenlee Forest in Killybegs, and preparatory work for the development of a Blueway for the small Donegal islands.

The funding has been welcomed by Deputy Pat ‘The Cope’ Gallagher: “Funding allocations under this scheme have already made a sizeable difference,” he said.

“When I visit these recreational spaces around Donegal, you can see the positive effect the investment has had—giving them a vibrancy and new life. 

“These spaces are essential for Donegal as they promote local tourism and show off the very best of our county.”

The funding has also been welcomed by Donegal Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue and Senator Nikki Bradley

“When projects are delivered, this funding provide a major boost to the local economy by attracting visitors and furthering our reputation as a destination for adventure tourism,” Senator Bradley said.

Full list of Donegal projects funded under ORIS 2024/25

1. Promotional material & App for Árainn Mhór–Ailt an Chorráin Blueway – €16,200
2. Batts Walk, Rathmullan – €40,000
3. Creggan Woods, Stranorlar – €40,000
4. County-wide trailhead information panels – €40,000
5. Dungloe River & Cope Mountain Looped Walk – €40,000
6. Glenlee Forest Trail, Killybegs – €40,000
7. Golan Pad, Milford – €40,000
8. Drummonaghan Wood Trail Development – €30,645
9. Lakes Loop, Inishowen – €40,000
10. Sharagore Wetland Trail – €27,270
11. Stragill Trailhead Works – €40,000
12. Siúlóid Abhainn an Chaitinn – €40,000
13. Glengesh Trails – €50,000
14. The Steeple Walk & Maullaghagarry Wood, Ballybofey/Stranorlar – €50,000
15. Tory Island Trail Development – €50,000
16. Lough Dhún Lúiche Trail Development – €49,926
17. Development of Blueway for the Small Donegal Islands – €42,000
18. Angling access for disabled and less abled anglers in Donegal – €36,000

Total Funding for Donegal: €706,041