The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) supports the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure and the necessary repair/maintenance, enhancement or promotion of existing outdoor recreation infrastructure in countryside areas across Ireland. The scheme is funded under “Our Rural Future” which specifically prioritises the growing outdoor activity tourism sector as part of a long-term vision for a vibrant and sustainable rural Ireland.
Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023 – 2027. is shaping the strategic direction of outdoor recreation in Ireland. The strategy will lead, guide and facilitate the sustainable development and management of outdoor recreation in the medium term. It is essential that all projects applied for under ORIS are consistent with Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors.
In line with Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, outdoor recreation is defined as activities that take place in the natural environment, such as walking, canoeing, mountain biking, orienteering and wild swimming. It does not include activities that take place outdoors on confined courses or pitches (such as golf, football, Pétanque and show-jumping) or motorised activities (such as quads/scramblers). As a consequence, such activities are not eligible for funding under ORIS. Further detail on the definition can be found in the Strategy.
Measure 2 Grant Amounts: Up to €200,000
Medium scale projects that are in line with the objectives and focus of the Scheme. This includes, but is not limited to, the development of new recreational infrastructure, extensions/upgrades to already established trails, walkways, mountain access routes, cycleways, blueways, water or cycle trails or other recreational facilities at bogs, rivers, lakes or beaches. Projects can also include works for the repair, maintenance or promotion of such infrastructure.
Measure 3 Grant amounts: Up to €500,000
Strategic large-scale projects that are in line with the objectives and focus of the Scheme. This includes, but is not limited to, the development of new larger-scale recreational infrastructure, as well as significant extensions/upgrades to already established trails, walkways, mountain access routes, cycleways, blueways, water or cycle trails or other recreational facilities at bogs, rivers, lakes or beaches.