Boost for Athlone projects as Westmeath gets €1.6m from community fund
Upgrade works planned at several community facilities and amenities in the Athlone area have received a welcome funding boost today (Thursday).
St Mary's Hall on Northgate Street, Athlone Regional Sports Centre and the Dun na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park in Moate are among the local facilities set to benefit from a €1.6 million allocation to Westmeath through the Government's Community Recognition Fund.
The funding was announced this morning and is designed to support communities that are welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries.
Westmeath's allocation, of €1.6m, will see 16 projects being supported with grants of between €5,000 and €300,000.
In Athlone, St Mary's Hall is being awarded €250,000 towards refurbishment works.
The biggest single allocation in the county - of €300,000 - is going towards the lighting of walkways at the public fitness park in Athlone Regional Sports Centre.
Wansboro Park in the town is to receive €150,000 for work to upgrade its pathway and play facilities, while, in Moate, Dun na Sí is being awarded €100,000 to improve footpaths in order to "facilitate safe and comfortable access for people with disabilities, and buggies."
Athlone Tennis Club is being granted €80,000 towards its club house and the development of three children's tennis courts, while €40,000 is being put towards a full size basketball court at Athlone Regional Sports Centre.
A grant of €55,000 will go towards refurbishment works and the installation of a lift in the community centre in Battery Heights, and Athlone Boat Club is to receive €40,000 towards an upgrade of its boat storage facility, and the provision of an 'eco toilet' at Coosan Point.
In addition, €50,000 has been earmarked for disability equipment at "two to three Athlone playgrounds".
Westmeath's allocation from the Community Recognition Fund was welcomed by Fine Gael Minister of State Peter Burke.
"The Community Recognition Fund has been designed to develop infrastructure and facilities in areas where a significant number of new arrivals have been accommodated from Ukraine and other countries, with funding spread throughout the county," said the Westmeath TD.
" In total, the fund will administer nationally €30m in 2023, and €20m in 2024.
"This goes to show that when viable, worthwhile projects are identified and highlighted, the funding is there - we back these communities and we fully recognise the efforts being made," he commented.