July 22, 2026

Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2026–2027 – Applications now open

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2026–2027 is now open for applications, offering funding for the development, repair and promotion of outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas across Ireland. The scheme supports projects such as walking and cycling trails, blueways, mountain and upland paths, water‑based amenities and visitor‑management measures that protect sensitive environments while improving access for local communities and visitors.

ORIS provides up to 90% grant aid, with a minimum 10% cash match funding required from the applicant or partners. Eligible applicants include local authorities, local development companies and state bodies, working in partnership with community and voluntary groups, trail management organisations and County Outdoor Recreation Committees.

Four measures are available in the current round:

  • Measure 1 – Small‑scale repair, maintenance, development, promotion and marketing
    Grants of up to €40,000 for smaller projects including trail and path repairs, way‑marking, signage, trail‑head improvements, natural play areas as part of larger outdoor projects, and promotional activities.
  • Measure 2 – Medium‑scale repair, upgrade and new trail/amenity development
    Grants of up to €200,000 for new or significantly upgraded trails, blueways, access routes and other outdoor amenities, as well as substantial maintenance and promotion works.
  • Measure 3 – Strategic large‑scale repair, upgrade and new strategic trail/amenity development
    Grants of up to €500,000 for larger, strategic projects that have county‑wide or regional impact and align with national strategies such as Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors and local County Outdoor Recreation Plans.
  • Project Development Measure (PDM)
    Grants of up to €100,000 to bring projects to “shovel‑ready” stage through detailed design, planning, environmental assessment and procurement preparation for future ORIS rounds.

Closing date and how to apply via CLDC

For projects in Clare being channelled through Clare Local Development Company, the deadline for receipt of applications is Friday 14th August 2026. Applicants should

  • Review the 2026–2027 Scheme Outline, Points to Note, Application Forms and Applications Overview sheet (available from CLDC and the Department’s website).
  • Ensure their proposed project aligns with Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, the Clare Outdoor Recreation Plan and relevant climate and biodiversity objectives, including consultation with local biodiversity and heritage officers where required.
  • Complete the relevant application form (Measure 1, Measure 2/3 or Project Development Measure) and the Applications Overview sheet, keeping supporting documentation (Expression of Interest form, maps, consents) on file as requested by the Department.

Completed applications and queries should be submitted to trails@cldc.ie, where CLDC’s Rural Recreation team can provide guidance on project eligibility, match funding requirements and alignment with county and national outdoor recreation strategies.