'Learn to Cycle' Track in Dungarvan. View the Cycling Ireland Blueprint here


The  Outdoor  Recreation  Infrastructure  Scheme  (ORIS)  contributes  to  the  strategic objective  of strengthened rural  economies  and  communities as  set  out  in  the Project  Ireland  2040  strategy. 


The objective of the Scheme is to provide funding for the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure  and  for  the  necessary repair,  enhancement  or  promotion  of  existing  outdoor recreation infrastructure in countryside areas across Ireland. It specifically supports the growing outdoor activity tourism sector as prioritised in “Our Rural Future”, Ireland’s Rural Development Policy 2021 - 2025.


ORIS, along with other funding interventions delivered through the Rural Development Investment Programme,  such  as  the  Town  and Village  Renewal  Scheme,  CLÁR,  the  Local  Improvement Scheme  and  the  Rural  Regeneration  and  Development  Fund,  seeks  to  assist  in  achieving  the National Strategic Outcomes of Strengthened Rural Economies and Communities, set out in the National Development Plan 2018-2027.


The  Scheme  is  administered  by  the  Department  of  Rural  and  Community  Development  and supported by Fáilte Ireland. To date, ORIS has allocated funding of almost €87 million for 1,246 projects around the country. The scheme invests in the physical infrastructure that underpins sporting and recreational activities based on the use of the resources of the countryside; these contribute to healthy active lifestyles while building on the economic and tourism potential of the areaand so are to the benefit of both local communities and tourist visitors alike. 


The scheme may also provide some limited funding for the marketing and promotion of such infrastructure, typically as part of a wider project involving capital supports.


The 2022 scheme  emphasises  the  opportunities  for  recreational  amenities  located  near  rivers, lakes and beacheand also seeks to support recreational infrastructure that provides an inclusive approach for communities to deliver outlets that support a diverse range of users, including people with disabilities and older adults.


Eligible cycling project types include:

  • Greenways in excess of 20km
  • Purchase/lease of land
  • Legal fees
  • Sports grounds, traditional playgrounds and Multi Use Gaming Areas (MUGAs)
  • Works within Town Parks in towns and villages. 
  • Refurbishment  and  construction  of  buildings
  • Walking  or  running (or cycling)  tracks  located  in  a  confined  space,  e.g.  around sportpitches or playgrounds, or within other sportsgrounds
  • Marked street trails, walkways and cycleways within towns and villages


Applications much be submitted by Local Authorities.


Read More


Cycling Ireland Blueprint for Developing a Cycling Hub