Almost €6 million has been announced for the construction of walking and cycling trails across counties Longford and Westmeath.
The €5.7m in funding from Fáilte Ireland and allocated to BnM, formerly Bord na Móna, will see the construction of two new walking and cycling trails.
The project is co-funded by the Government and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund and the trails are the first to be developed under the Midlands Trails Network (MTN).
The Trail Network Scheme aims to establish the midlands as a compelling destination for outdoor activities, supporting the creation of new jobs in ancillary and related activities, connecting back into towns and villages.
The network, once complete, could deliver up to 70km of trail, subject to planning consents.
These new routes will connect with existing national and regional greenways and local community trails, creating enhanced opportunities for outdoor recreation, community engagement, and tourism growth.
An additional four trail sections within the EU Just Transition Fund territory are currently in the planning process.
The construction phase was officially launched by Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, today.
"The development of these trails will have a positive and lasting impact on the midlands", said Minister Burke.
"They will not only enhance the region's appeal for outdoor recreation and tourism but also deliver real economic benefits for local businesses and communities", he said.
"This is a significant milestone in our journey to revitalise the midlands through sustainable tourism and placemaking, and I am delighted to mark the construction of these trails in Westmeath and Longford", the Minister added.
BnM Chief Executive Tom Donnellan said the company remains committed to working with local communities to create long-term social and environmental value.
"These new amenities will support local businesses and contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the midlands, alongside BnM’s Eco Energy Park and Renewable Energy projects", he said.
