Rural communities in County Wicklow have received a significant boost with €408,658 granted to eight projects under the CLÁR 2025 initiative.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, confirmed the funding on 28^th November 2025, noting that this brings the total nationwide investment in the CLÁR 2025 program to over €14 million so far this year.

The CLÁR programme (Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais) is designed to support small scale projects in rural communities that have experienced notable population decline.

The eight projects in County Wicklow receiving funding are as follows:

1. Rathcoyle National School: installation of play area at the front of school - €91,692
2. Ballymanus Community Field: reconfigure the existing building to incorporate a gym - €100,000
3. Knockananna GAA: Installation of lighting on the community walkway and access gates to the grounds - €45,000
4. Askanagap Community Hall: installation of solar panels, storage heaters and fencing - €36,675
5. Knockananna Amenity Area: Refurbishment of the playground - €64,351
6. Knockananna Community Hall: Resurface the area at rear of facility - €15,750
7. Rathcoyle National School: Laying astro turf at the pitch goal mouths - €15,323
8. Ballymanus Community Field: Purchase of robotic lawn mower, fencing and goal post netting - €39,867

Wicklow County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Melanie Corrigan, welcomed the announcement stating, “The funding will strengthen local amenities and provide meaningful support to rural communities”.

Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council emphasised the importance of community groups, schools, and sports clubs, describing them as the social heartbeat of rural Ireland. She stressed that “continued investment in Wicklow’s rural areas is vital, and the CLÁR programme is an excellent vehicle for achieving this”.

Michael Nicholson, Director of Service with Wicklow County Council, noted the tangible benefits for rural villages, stating, “The CLÁR programme demonstrates how targeted investment can greatly enhance the quality of life for local residents”.

IMAGERY:

Photo of the resurfacing and marking of the carpark at Knockananna GAA club awarded under the Clár 2023 scheme which was completed in 2025. Photo credit: Knockananna GAA.