Waterford community groups allocated thousands in funding for climate action projects
23 community projects in Waterford have been successful under the programme
Community groups in County Waterford have been allocated thousands of euro in funding for climate action projects.
Minister for Climate Darragh O’Brien has announced the successful projects that have been awarded funding under Phase 2 of the Community Climate Action Programme.
23 community projects in Waterford, stretching from Bonmahon to Ballyduff and from Tourin to Tramore, have been successful under the programme.
They are set to receive more than €630,000 in funding in a bid to help communities tackle climate action at a local level.
The funding aims to support both small and large rural and urban communities in taking a “holistic approach to sustainability and accelerating the transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient communities”.
Individual projects have been awarded funding ranging from €4,500 to €75,000 to provide the resources and support to deliver a wide range of climate action initiatives.
The funded initiatives include the upgrade of sports pitch lighting to LED systems, the installation of solar PV panels and the development of urban orchards and pollinator plantations.
One of the successful projects, KGK (Knockanore Glendine Kilwatermoy) Community Development Group received over €30,000 in funding for the refurbishment of a former HSE Clinic into a Community Social Centre.
Funding will also be used to to improve the energy efficiency of the building which will include upgrading windows, internal and external doors, heating and LED upgrades.
They will also install bike parking, setup a reuse schemes for books, toys and mores and will carry out a range of biodiversity measures on their grounds.
Monica Murphy, Secretary of KGK Community Development Group said: “This project will transform an unused building into a vibrant community hub, bringing people together in a welcoming and inclusive space.
“It is a climate action project which will foster a sense of belonging, and support local groups to thrive.”
Susan Lee, Community Climate Action Officer with Waterford City and County Council, also welcomed the funding.
Ms Lee said: “We are delighted to see this increased level of funding and support being invested in community-led climate initiatives.
“Each of the successful groups has shown real commitment and ambition in delivering projects that will make a lasting and meaningful impact within their communities while supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.”
The Waterford projects that will receive funding under the scheme are as follows: Bonmahon GAA Club, Carriglea Community Project, Celtic Squash Club, Dunmore East F.C., Johnville F.C., Little Nellie’s Baby Bank, Passage East Hurling Club and Portlaw Camogie/Ladies Gaelic Football Club.
Also receiving funding are: The Grange Residents Association, Tourin Community Company LTD., Tournore Court Residents Association Tramore Tidy Towns, Ballyduff Community Centre Development Clg, Ballymacarbry TidyTowns, Brill Family Resource Centre, KCK, Modeligo Community Centre, Order of Malta, Brickey Rangers GAA, Clashmore Kinsalebeg GAA, and Sliabh gCua – St. Mary’s GAA Club.
Under the programme, projects were required to address key themes including energy, travel, food and waste, shopping and recycling, and local climate and environmental action.
Successful applications were asked to demonstrate a broad and integrated approach to sustainability rather than focusing on a single measure.