Funding Boost for Dunleer – Energising The Community Project

Louth County Council welcomes the allocation of €607,790 under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) for the Dunleer – Energising The Community public realm project.

Announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, as part of a €20.5 million package for 30 landmark regeneration projects in rural communities across the country, this Category 2 funding will support two transformative initiatives selected from the Dunleer Town Centre First Plan: enhancement works on Main Street and the revitalisation of the train station area.

These interlinked components aim to strengthen the town’s identity, improve accessibility, and create a more vibrant and welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.

The successful application was built on the expertise within the local community, focusing on sustainability and how that can be adapted to the public realm.

Developed in collaboration with the Dunleer Town Team, local stakeholders, and the wider community, the project reflects a shared vision for the town’s future and aligns with the Government’s Town Centre First policy and Project Ireland 2040.

The RRDF investment will enable the delivery of the planning, design, and technical stages of the initiative, paving the way for further funding opportunities to implement the project on the ground. When completed, the works will support local enterprise, encourage sustainable transport, and enhance the overall quality of life in Dunleer.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, said: “I am delighted to announce the successful projects selected from applications to the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. This €1 billion fund was established under Project Ireland 2040 to deliver the targeted investment necessary to ensure that rural Ireland continues to grow and prosper and deliver on balanced regional growth that is in everyone’s interests.”

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: "This funding is a major vote of confidence in Dunleer and its community. The Town Centre First Plan has laid out a clear and ambitious roadmap for revitalisation, and this announcement marks a significant step forward in delivering that vision."

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: "We are committed to ensuring that Dunleer continues to thrive as a vibrant and accessible town. This investment will help us realise key elements of the Town Centre First Plan and, once again, demonstrates the power of collaboration between local communities and government."