The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys has announced a €4.5 million package to support Ireland's rural towns and villages.
As part of a suite of measures, a new Town Team Support Fund will be established to build and develop a network of Town Teams nationwide.
Town Centre First
The project will see up to €50,000 invested in supporting the development of projects designed to breathe new life into rural communities. Additional funding will be provided for projects submitted by counties in the North West, recognising the specific challenges facing the region.
Towns will also be provided with up to €30,000 in funding to develop their own Town Centre First (TCF) Plans.
'Attract Tourism'
“I’m delighted to announce a package of over €4.5 million to support the development of our Rural towns and villages across the country," said Minister Humphreys.
“This is about empowering our communities to realise their vision.
"It’s about giving them the tools and supports they need to generate investment, attract tourism and above all, become better places to live, work and raise a family."
'Encouraging All Communities'
These supports will specifically target rural towns with a population of under 10,000 people.
The minister said the package is designed to further enhance government support towards the revitalisation of rural towns and villages, making them more attractive places in which to live, work, visit and invest.
“This significant package of supports will be administered through the local authorities and the Town Regeneration Officers and I’m encouraging all communities to get involved,” said Minister Humphreys.
