Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice, David Stanton, has welcomed the allocation of almost €500,000 to local projects under category 2 of the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF).

This strand of the RRDF is part of a national funding package of €62 million to support collaborative projects between Government departments, State agencies, local authorities, other public bodies, communities and, where appropriate, philanthropic or private funders. The lead partner must be a state-funded body.

The Department of Rural and Community Development has confirmed that €375,000 has been allocated to the Office of Public Works to complete a development plan for the Annes Grove House and Gardens in Castletownroche. This funding will also allow for the progression of some elements of the plan to planning permission stage.

A further €122,025 has been awarded to the Avondhu Blackwater Partnership CLG to facilitate a series of design, heritage and employment initiatives as part of the strategic development plan for Rathcormac.

Confirming the allocation, Minister Stanton said “The RRDF is a key component of Project Ireland 2040, which is the Government’s plan to deliver balanced regional and rural development through major capital projects. The RRDF supports measures to rejuvenate communities, create employment and transform rural economies.

“I am delighted to see that funding has been granted to the two projects under category 2 of the fund which ensures seed funding for projects with potential. I am certain that the development of Annes Grove House and Gardens and the progression of the Rathcormac strategic plan will be hugely beneficial to the communities of Castletownroche and Rathcormac respectively.”