LIMERICK is to get its first six-lane outdoor lawn bowls facility thanks to Limerick Sports Partnership, which has secured €138,750 from the Participation Nation Outdoor Fund 2024 (PNOF).
The PNOF aims to support the installation of barrier-free outdoor sports infrastructure for public use in local communities.
Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education, and the Gaeltacht, Thomas Byrne, confirmed the allocations under the new fund.
A total of €2.26million was allocated to 30 local sports partnerships nationwide to facilitate the purchase and installation of permanent sports infrastructure on public land for community use.
- External Walls: Up to €8,000 Grant
- Attic: Up to €1,500 Grant
- Cavity Walls: Up to €1,700 Grant
- Internal Dry Lining: Up to €4,500 Grant
The fund is designed to encourage physical activity in local communities by supporting the development of barrier-free sports projects on publicly accessible land.
Examples of PNOF-supported projects include 3×3 basketball courts, outdoor soccer tables, table tennis, and outdoor gym equipment.
Following the announcement, Phelim Macken, Manager of Limerick Sports Partnership, expressed his delight, saying: “We are thrilled with this announcement under the Participation Nation Fund. This initiative has two components: developing outdoor sports infrastructure and improving biodiversity.”
“These funds will help Limerick LSP and our partners develop the first six-lane outdoor lawn bowls facility in Limerick. This facility will be an excellent addition for providing meaningful physical activity and sport for the ever-increasing older adult community in Limerick.
“It will benefit all communities as it is a multi-generational activity. We plan to have this facility operational by the third quarter of 2025.”