CLÁR Scheme 2023 : Supporting Rural Waterford
The CLÁR 2023 Funding Scheme is now open for applications.
The CLÁR (Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais) Scheme provides funding for small-scale infrastructural projects in rural areas that have experienced significant population decline. The CLÁR Funding Scheme is available to areas of population decline in County Waterford, as defined in the CLÁR area map and the list of CLÁR Electoral Districts below.
There are three measures being funded under the 2023 CLÁR programme.
Measure 1, operated by Waterford City and County Council, aims to develop community facilities and amenities. Up to 15 applications in total can be submitted from the relevant Local Authorities in respect of Measure 1. Priority for 2023 will be given to small-scale renovation works to community buildings and community centres that did not receive funding under the Community Centres Investment Fund. The maximum level of funding for any individual project is €50,000, and grant-funding is at a rate of 90% of total project costs.
Types of projects that may be supported under Measure 1 include small-scale renovation works to community facilities, multi-use gaming areas, playgrounds, sensory gardens, community cinemas, and community gyms. Funding will not be available for school/community safety measures, footpaths, pedestrian crossings, bus shelters, or works to current school buildings that are not open to the public after school hours.
All necessary permssions must be in place at the time of making an application, including landowner consent, planning permission, and match funding, and proof of same must be submitted with any application. Any facilities funded must be available to the public without a requirement to be a member of a club or enrolled in a school. Facilities on school grounds must be open to the public outside of school hours.
Measure 2, administered directly by the Department of Rural and Community Development, provides funding for mobility, cancer care, and community first responders transport.
Measure 3, also administered directly by the Department, provides funding for Island Communities for Island Community Transport and Outdoor Community Recreation Amenities.
- Waterford City and County Council will be operating Measure 1 of the CLÁR scheme.
Applications should be submitted to Waterford City and County Council at swhelan@waterfordcouncil.ie by Thursday 11th May 2023 at 4:00p.m.
If you live in a rural area of County Waterford and have a project idea that could benefit your community, consider applying for funding through the CLÁR Scheme 2023. This could be an opportunity to develop or enhance community facilities and amenities that can improve the quality of life for local residents. Be sure to review the guidelines and criteria for each measure before submitting your application.