€152,350 has been allocated to Laois County Council for the Slieve Bloom Signage Strategy through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
This will deliver walking trails and amenities for people, and has been welcomed by local TDs.
Fianna Fail’s Sean Fleming says funding is for the installation of destination Slieve Bloom signage and new information boards in key areas to enhance visitor experience.
He said: “Developing the Slieve Bloom area as a destination location is a priority for all of us here in Laois and significant improvements have already been made in the area.
“This is phase 2 of a project and a number of improvements have already been made in the Slieve Bloom area up to now.
“There is an excellent new car parking facility provided in the Slieve Bloom area and I want to commend Laois County Council for providing this facility with funding provided from the Government at national level.
“Many people use the Slieve Blooms as an area for walking and outdoor recreation.
“I advise all local people who have not been up in the Slieve Blooms in recent times to put it on their “To Do List” for 2026.
“I assure you that people will be highly impressed by the scenic views, walking tracks, nature and wildlife, picnic and car park facilities already in place.”
Fine Gael’s Willie Aird said: “This is more than just infrastructure, it will improve lives in Laois.
“These projects will give people greater access to nature, recreation and community spaces to support physical and mental wellbeing.
“This announcement acts upon Fine Gael’s promise to connect communities, promote healthy lifestyles and protect Ireland’s natural heritage.
“The funding announced is in respect of Measures 2 and 3 of the scheme which provides funding of up to €500,000 for strategic repair and maintenance of existing facilities together with the development of new recreational infrastructure.
