Financial boost for Longford tourism projects through Fáilte Ireland

Four innovative Longford tourism projects have been awarded over €565,000 through Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme, part of the EU Just Transition Fund.

The funding, announced last Friday, June 13, is part of a broader €2.3 million allocation to 18 Midlands projects supporting sustainable, inclusive, and rural tourism development.

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Of the Longford recipients, the largest allocation, €284,170, went to Clonbrin Farm Accommodation Ltd in Abbeyshrule towards the  development of three self-catering units in repurposed farm buildings.

While Clynan Mill Ltd received €269,000 for the restoration of a derelict 1850s Corn Mill into heritage-themed self catering accommodation.

Part of the EU Just Transition Fund programme, co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, this is the third announcement of successful projects under the Private and Community SME scheme.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said the EU Just Transition Fund schemes are delivering on supporting sustainable economic development and job creation in communities and businesses across the Midlands.

Minister Burke added, “I look forward to seeing these projects develop over the next year and to announce further successful projects for the Midlands over the coming weeks under this funding scheme.”

CEO of Fáilte Ireland, Paul Kelly said this €2.3 million in investment will further help to enhance the appeal of destinations across Ireland's Ancient East and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands by creating new opportunities and driving sustainable growth which will benefit local communities, businesses and visitors.

Mr Kelly continued, “With evaluation of applications reaching its final stage, we look forward to announcing further projects in the coming weeks. We will continue to work closely with local tourism businesses and communities, the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) and our strategic partners to bring these ambitious projects to life and shape a stronger future for the midlands.”

Welcoming the funding, Longford TD Micheál Carrigy stated, “This is a strong vote of confidence in Longford’s tourism future.”
Deputy Carrigy continued, “These projects reflect exactly the kind of rural innovation and local enterprise we need to support as we regenerate communities in the Midlands.”

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He says the projects that are to benefit are ' smart, sustainable projects that combine heritage, nature, and hospitality in ways that can drive long-term tourism growth for the region'.

Deputy Carrigy also noted that additional projects may be approved shortly, with evaluations of remaining applications nearing completion.

“This is what real rural transition looks like community-driven, job-creating and environmentally conscious tourism.”
Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy Darragh O’Brien T.D. said, “These projects, which will deliver improved tourism infrastructure, facilities and visitor experiences, are key examples of the Regenerative Tourism development journey in the Midlands. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact of these projects across the Midlands region.”