€4.2m for new water activity centre in Carlow

A RECORD €4.2 million has been granted to Carlow County Council for the development of a water activity centre.

The funding will go towards the building and development of a new ‘Water Hub Activity Centre’ in Carlow Town Park, which was approved in 2022 by An Bord Pleanála. The proposed facility will include a training and fitness room, changing facilities and boat equipment units, along with storage and amenities for rowing and dragon boats, and youth services.

The Water Hub Activity Centre is one of 35 projects around the country to receive funding in this second round of allocations under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund, with the total amount of grants awarded this week topping €173 million.

Reacting to the announcement, minister Malcom Noonan said the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund plays a crucial role in the government’s strategy to increase participation in sport and enhance physical activity and wellbeing among the population.

“This €4.2 million funding for a Water Hub Activity Centre is fantastic news for Carlow and will be a gamechanger for sports participation in the town. By investing in these kinds of really significant projects and facilities for the town, we’re helping to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, has access to high-quality sports facilities.

“We’ve seen record investment in sports equipment and facilities for Carlow and Kilkenny this year and this funding will help to create a legacy of sporting excellence for our counties, inspiring more people to engage in physical activity and pursue their sporting ambitions.”