Four Longford tourism projects benefit to the tune of €374,985 from Just Transition funding

Deputy Carrigy has praised the scheme, which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, for continuing to deliver meaningful investment in Longford and the wider Midlands.

“This is a fantastic boost for County Longford and for local tourism and community development,” said Deputy Carrigy. “These investments will help us grow sustainable tourism experiences in rural areas, support job creation, and enhance what Longford has to offer to both domestic and international visitors.”

He paid tribute to his Fine Gael colleague, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke TD, who has been instrumental in delivering this investment as part of the Government’s commitment to supporting communities impacted by the transition away from peat-based industries.

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The four Longford-based projects are part of a broader package which includes 13 private and community SME-led initiatives and 2 Local Authority/State Agency projects, spanning categories such as:

•   Development or enhancement of sustainable visitor experiences,
•   Low carbon tourist accommodation,
•   Capital planning and design for tourism development,
•   And accessibility enhancements to support inclusive tourism.

The four Longford-based businesses are: 

• Ballymahon Cycles: €64,878 to expand and diversify its bicycle fleet, making its offering more inclusive for all visitors.
• Croghan Hill Glamping: €80,776 for the delivery of eco-friendly glamping pods.
• Killashee Eco Lodge: €210,000 for new self-catering accommodation, a thermal suite featuring Irish peat baths, and a recreation area.
• Firecracker Sauna (Aughnacliff): €19,331 for the development of a wood-fired lakeside sauna at Lough Leebeen.

Evaluations of remaining applications are still ongoing, with additional funding announcements expected in the coming weeks.

Deputy Carrigy concluded:

“Today’s funding is a testament to the strength of the ideas and commitment within Longford’s tourism sector. I will continue working with Fáilte Ireland, Minister Burke, and local stakeholders to ensure Longford receives its fair share of future investment.”

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In Westmeath, Viking Tours Ireland (Athlone) has been awarded €297,600 to extend its river vessel and upgrade its environmental and accessibility features. The upgrades will include bike storage facilities, a marine waste holding tank, and a transition to low-emission HVO fuel.

Today’s announcement is part of a wider €4.2 million investment in 15 tourism projects across the Midlands. Further successful projects under the scheme are expected to be announced over the coming weeks.