Kildare forest facilities to be improved with funding

Recreation facilities on Coillte lands in Kildare, including walking trails, carparks and toilet facilities are to be improved, with additional funding announced recently.

The investment is part of a strategic partnership between the Department of Rural and Community Development and Coillte to maintain and manage existing trails in Coillte forests, and to develop new recreation opportunities.

Funding of €94,745 will be used to deliver a range of projects in Coillte parks in Kildare, to include €50,000 for Donadea Forest Park and €44,745 across Killinthomas, Moore Abbey, Mullaghreelan, and Rahin.

“The pandemic highlighted the benefits of getting out and enjoying our great outdoors and more people now make time to regularly visit our beaches, lakes, mountains and forests. This investment underscores the importance of keeping these amenities at a high standard,” said Minister Martin Heydon, TD for Kildare South.

“This is also good news for tourism locally. We know that an estimated 18 million visits are made to our recreational areas in Ireland and we are known for our rural tracks and trails. Indeed, Donadea Forest Park was announced as the third most popular non-ticketed Coillte Park in Ireland, hosting 203,543 visitors in 2023. Maintaining and upgrading our facilities at these forest parks will enhance their appeal and encourage people to get out in nature more.”