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Niamh O'Donoghue, 18 Aug
Donadea Forest Park, Killinthomas, Moore Abbey, Mullaghreelan, and
Rahin wood are to benefit from new funding totalling €94,745.
Minister Martin Heydon outlined that recreation facilities on Coillte
lands in Kildare, including walking trails, carparks and toilet
facilities are to be improved, with the additional funding that was
announced last Thursday.
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.
Minister Heydon said: “I welcome this funding announcement by Minister
Heather Humphreys. €94,745 will be used to deliver a range of projects
in Coillte parks in Kildare, to include €50,000 for Donadea Forest
Park, and €44,745 across Killinthomas, Moore Abbey, Mullaghreelan,
Rahin, and will benefit everyone who enjoys these amenities, not just
in Summer, but all year round.
“The pandemic highlighted the benefits of getting out and enjoying our
great outdoors and more people now make time to regularly visit our
beaches, lakes, mountains and forests. This investment underscores the
importance of keeping these amenities at a high standard.
“This is also good news for tourism locally. We know that an estimated
18 million visits are made to our recreational areas in Ireland and we
are known for our rural tracks and trails. Indeed. Donadea Forest Park
was announced as the third most popular non-ticketed Coillte Park in
Ireland, hosting 203,543 visitors in 2023. Maintaining and upgrading
our facilities at these forest parks will enhance their appeal and
encourage people to get out in nature more.”