Four communities in Mayo are to share funding of almost €114,325 under the Government's Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
Funding of €39,600 has been provided for broadband connection points at community centres in 10 locations in Mayo, namely Belderrig, Bofeenaun, Clare Island, Cushlough, Finny, Islandeady, Keel, Killasser, Kilmovee, and Taugheen. Office furniture and IT equipment will also be provided to maximise potential of new high speed broadband connection.
Funding of €25,000 has been allocated to Cong remedial works on the public realm to allow safe queueing on the footpath and safe placement of outdoor tables and chairs.
Meanwhile €24,725 has been allocated to Lahardane village street works and enhancement of the public realm to increase visitor footfall to the outdoor Titanic museum and park, and €25,000 has been allocated for the purchase of large parasols to create 50 square metres of sheltered external space in Westport for festivals, markets, tourism, and community events.
Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon welcomed the funding saying: "Local authorities throughout the country have been developing creative and innovative proposals to increase footfall and assist businesses in our rural towns and villages.
"This tranche of funding announced today is part of an enhanced €25 million Town and Village Scheme which will continue to rejuvenate rural communities across Ireland.
"Further approvals under this hugely popular scheme will follow in a series of funding rounds that will be announced in the coming weeks. I expect that up to 500 towns and villages will be supported this year under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.”
Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Richard Finn, also welcomed the announcement. "Covid-19 restrictions have had a huge effect on rural towns and villages," he said. "We must abide by the rules, but we also must work alongside the people who are adapting their businesses and our communities to our new way of life.
"The funding provided for broadband and the improvement to the public realms of vibrant Mayo communities, will go a long way in keeping Mayo safe, connected, and open for business."
