Date: 8 September 2021
Green Party TD, Steven Matthews was speaking following the announcement of the €200,000 grant funding announced by his party colleague, Minister Catherine Martin in conjunction with Fáilte Ireland. The funding is for 2 large scale projects in Arklow and Wicklow Town and will support the development of permanent, year-round, weather proofed outdoor dining areas in both towns. This funding comes under Part Two of the Government’s Local Authority Weatherproofing & Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme. Discussing the announcement, Deputy Matthews said:
“I am delighted to see this funding announcement this afternoon that will see welcome investment in Arklow and Wicklow Town. I know that a huge amount of work went into the planning submissions and Wicklow County Council deserve a huge amount of credit for getting these proposals over the line and supported in this round of funding. The breakdown of the funding is outlined below:
· Abbey Lane, Arklow (€81,000)
· Market Square, Wicklow Town (€118,624)
“I believe that the addition of permanent – weather proofed seating/ dining areas in these towns will have a hugely positive impact and will attract more visitors - benefitting small local businesses. The impact that the pandemic had on the hospitality sector across Wicklow is immeasurable and this funding is about long-term investment to support tourism and hospitality jobs and help businesses develop new ways of catering for domestic and international tourists outdoors.
“One of the key commitments that the Green Party made before going into government was that any investment in our communities would be fair and geographically balanced to avoid situations where only certain towns/ villages get grant supports. I hope that this announcement, coupled with the series of funding announcements over the summer demonstrate how seriously we took this commitment with funding for projects big and small across Wicklow being announced.
“Part one of this funding scheme opened earlier in the summer and focused on individual grants of up to €4,000 for businesses to enhance their outdoor seating, build awnings among other opportunities. That funding stream remains open for application until September 30th so I would encourage any hospitality business that has not yet applied – to do so as soon as possible.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Wicklow County Council both on these two projects for Arklow and Wicklow Town but also on a huge variety of future initiatives as part of the wider county Development Plan, concluded Deputy Matthews.
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