Ireland’s Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, visited County Cavan to officially open and launch several community and infrastructure projects supported by more than €10 million in government funding. The projects were funded through multiple rural development programmes aimed at improving recreation, tourism, accessibility, and community regeneration across the county.
The Minister began his visit in Kingscourt by opening the new Natural Play Area at Dún an Rí Forest Park. Supported through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, the project included landscape upgrades, the construction of a natural playground, and improved pathways connecting the park’s main car parks. The initiative was delivered through collaboration between Cavan County Council, Coillte, and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
During the visit, Minister Calleary also turned the sod for the Ballyjamesduff Community and Enterprise Hub, which received more than €7.65 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. The hub is expected to serve as a key centre for economic and community regeneration in Ballyjamesduff and surrounding areas once completed.
The Minister later officially opened the upgraded Killykeen Bridge within the forest park. The project, supported through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, improved accessibility for walkers, cyclists, and individuals with mobility challenges, making local trails more inclusive and easier to access.
In Cavan town, enhancement works at Con Smith Park were also officially opened. The redevelopment included improved walking routes, accessibility upgrades, a new coffee kiosk, wheelchair-accessible public toilets, playground extensions featuring sensory play panels, and additional seating areas. The project was supported through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
The final stop of the visit was Ballyconnell Market House, which has been redeveloped into a community remote working and tourism hub. The renovation project received €1.2 million through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and is expected to strengthen local economic activity and community engagement.
The Irish government noted that the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund has supported more than 272 projects across Ireland since 2018, with over €612 million approved nationally. County Cavan alone has received more than €35 million for 13 projects under the programme, reflecting continued investment in rural infrastructure and community development.
