Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2026/2027

ORIS-2026-2027-1

The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht has launched the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2026/2027.

Longford County Council now invites Expressions of Interest from community groups and stakeholders seeking funding for outdoor recreation projects across the county.

The scheme supports the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure and the enhancement, repair, or promotion of existing facilities in rural areas.

Funding Available

The 2026/2027 ORIS includes four funding measures:

  • Measure 1: Small Scale Repair, Development, Promotion and Marketing 

Maximum funding: €40,000

  • Measure 2: Medium Scale Repair and Upgrade and New Trail and Amenity Development

Maximum funding: €200,000

  • Measure 3: Strategic Large Scale Repair and Upgrade and New Strategic Trail and Amenity Development

Maximum funding: €500,000

  • Project Development Measure (PDM): Supports design, planning, environmental assessment and project preparation 

Maximum funding: €100,000

Key Priorities for 2026/2027

This round of the scheme places particular emphasis on:

  • Maintenance and enhancement of existing trails and infrastructure
  • Accessibility and inclusion for all users
  • Supporting climate action and biodiversity
  • Delivering visitor management solutions at sensitive or high-use sites
  • Demonstrating strong community engagement and collaboration
  • Aligning with County Outdoor Recreation Plans and national policy

Eligible Projects

Eligible ORIS projects include (non-exhaustive list):

Land-based activities: Walking, hillwalking, hiking, leisure cycling, mountain biking, horse riding, running, orienteering, rock climbing and other nature-based recreation

Water-based activities: Canoeing, kayaking, rowing, wild swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and angling

Projects must take place in natural outdoor environments. Sports pitches, motorised activities, and standalone urban facilities are not eligible.

Important Requirements

  • Planning permission (where required) must be in place prior to application
  • Environmental assessments (e.g. Appropriate Assessment Screening) may be required
  • Projects must demonstrate:
    • Community consultation
    • Engagement with relevant local authority officers
    • Compliance with public procurement requirements
  • A minimum 10% cash contribution is required

Application Deadlines

  • Measure 1 and PDM: 25 September 2026
  • Measure 2 and Measure 3: 15 December 2026

How to Apply

Longford County Council will carry out a competitive selection process.

Interested groups must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining their proposed project. Shortlisted projects will be developed into full applications for submission to the Department.

Further details on the EOI process will be issued by Longford County Council.

Previous ORIS Calls

Details of previously approved projects under ORIS can be found below:

Click here to view the ORIS Measure 1 Successful Projects

Click here to view ORIS Measure 2 & 3 Successful Projects

Click here to view Project Development Measure Successful Projects 

Further Information

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme is funded under Our Rural Future, the Government’s policy for rural development, which recognises the importance of outdoor recreation in supporting rural economies and community wellbeing.

Further information is available from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.