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Nearly 150 cities and towns will benefit from a variety of Covid-19-friendly projects through new funding for outdoor cinemas, playgrounds, and dog parks.
The additional € 15.4 million allocated to the Towns and Towns Renewable Plan for local developments also aims to make communities more attractive for remote work.
The 147 projects approved for funding include various work and study centers in rural communities along with bike lanes, walkways and biodiversity parks. Rural and Community Affairs Minister Heather Humphreys said she wanted the funds to be used to help communities “recover and adapt to the current challenges presented by Covid-19.”
“It will help make our cities and towns safer places to live, work and do business,” he said.
“The pandemic has made us all appreciate the importance of getting outside to get some exercise and fresh air.
“I am delighted that the wide range of projects being funded today will support the development of recreational amenities such as walkways, bike paths, dog parks, community parks, play areas and more,” she said.
“While remote working was just a concept a year ago, it has now become a daily work reality for tens of thousands of people as a result of Covid-19.
“I am pleased to see so many communities embrace this new reality as they seek to develop remote work facilities, eHubs and co-working spaces,” he added.
Projects include a € 200,000 10-desk innovation center in Claregalway, Co Galway, and the restoration of an old school digital center and playground at a cost of € 100,000. The fund will award € 97,451 to develop an autism-friendly park with a playground and a walking / biking trail in Ballinalee, Laois.
Ms. Humphreys donated € 100,000 towards the development of an educational facility, nature preserve, public services and recreational space on Bailieborough Lake in her own Cavan constituency.
Irish independent
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