CLÁR funding will be 'massive for the community' in Castlebellingham

The extension of CLÁR funding to Castlebellingham will be "massive for the community" according to Ardee councillors. 

The funding, which is also in place for the Cooley Peninsula has been extended to the Castlebellingham area off the back of a review carried out by the Department of Rural and Community Development. 

A spokesperson for Louth County Council told the April meeting of the Ardee Municipal District that the scheme is aimed at "areas which have experienced significant levels of depopulation, disadvantage and geographical remoteness."

He said it had been implemented for the Cooley Peninsula in response to the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001. 

Eligible local authorities can put in up to 12 applications of up to €65,000 and up to 2 applications of €100,000. 

Councillors were told the scheme could fund for example, "renovation works, community facilities, MUGAS (Multi-Use Games Area), playgrounds, car parking and handball alleys". 

Sinn Féin councillor Pearse McGeough said the funding is "massive for the community". 

"I have been in the North Louth area and I have seen the benefits to that area. I know there will be challenges ahead, and it’s a great opportunity for Castlebellingham," he said. 

Fianna Fáíl councillor John Sheridan also welcomed the funding and said "there's lots of future potential" for Castlebellingham. 

"Castlebellingham is a growing area. There’s so many estates both under construction and under planning so there’s lots of future potential," he said. 

While Cathaoirleach of the Ardee Municipal District, Cllr Dolores Minogue said the funding will have a positive impact on the area. 

"It’s great to see that local clubs are going to be supported and projects that will improve the community. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this funding will have on the community," she said. 

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Cllr Minogue asked the Council if there are plans to extend the funding to other areas in Mid-Louth. 

Louth County Council's spokesperson said that is a matter for the Department and informed councillors that projects must be strictly located within the Castlebellingham electoral area.

"If it’s over the road or say if it’s a community centre that’s just outside but it services the community, it isn’t eligible," he said. 

He said funding announcements will be made towards the end of 2026. 

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.