CLÁR Programme for 2024
CLÁR (Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais) is a targeted investment programme for rural areas that aims to provide funding for small infrastructural projects in rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population. The funding works in conjunction with local/Agency and other Departmental funding programmes and on the basis of locally identified priorities.
Click here for Department of Rural and Community Development info on the programme
Outline of CLÁR Programme for 2024
The 2024 CLÁR programme will be delivered through three separate Measures as follows:
Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities & Amenities
Measure 2: Mobility, Cancer Care and Community First Responders Transport
Measure 3: ‘Our Islands’
Measure 1 Developing Community Facilities and Amenities
Measure 1 is administered by Local Authorities in consultation with local communities that can include schools, community and voluntary groups and local development companies. Please note that applications will only be accepted directly from Local Authorities. Sporting organisations where the proposed infrastructure through the application is for the benefit of the community generally(not just the sporting organisation) and is made freely available to all members of the community. Please note that up to 90% funding is available under this measure.
Types of Intervention eligible (this is not an exhaustive list):
Measure 1 will support a variety of capital projects provided that they contribute to the enhancement of existing, and/or the development of new, accessible Community Recreation Facilities.
In 2024, Measure 1 will prioritise funding applications in respect of small-scale renovation works to community centres (e.g. floors, windows, doors, heating upgrades, kitchen upgrades) and in particular community centres that did not receive funding under the Communities Centres Investment Fund (CCIF). Please note that the grant range is €5,000 up to €50,000
The list below provides an indication of the types of projects that may be supported, but is not exhaustive:
• Small scale renovation works to community facilities open to the wider community such as community centres/sports centres/clubhouses/youth centres/Men’s & Women’s Sheds etc.
• Multi-Use Gaming Areas (MUGAs)/Astro-Turf facilities including upgrades.
• Playgrounds/Skateboard parks/Pump tracks/Cycling tracks
• Walking/Running /Athletics tracks.
• Handball Alleys/Tennis Courts/Basketball Courts/Cricket Grounds
• Community Gyms/Community Cinemas
• Sensory Gardens/Community Gardens/ Allotments
• Access to unique local heritage sites / areas of natural beauty
• Outdoor Bowling Areas/Outdoor Toilet Facilities/Car Parking
• Improving access at sports grounds e.g., development/upgrade of spectator stands at local sports grounds with a particular focus on improving access for people of all abilities and ages.
•Solar Bins
•Biodiversity Planting
Submit Expression of Interest for CLÁR measure 1
Please contact Ann Marie Maher, Sport & Leisure Officer, Laois County Council to discuss potential projects for submission to this scheme as early as possible:
Email: sports@laoiscoco.ie
Phone: 057 8664041 or 087 6184404
Completed Expression of Interest Applications for Measure 1 must be submitted directly to Laois County Council by email in a word version only, to sports@laoiscoco.ie
Closing date for receipt of Expressions of Interest applications to Laois County Council is 5.00 p.m. on Wednesday, 22nd May 2024.
Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Expression of Interest Application forms for Measure 1:
Map of CLÁR Area boundaries in Co Laois
For further information on CLÁR measure 1
Please contact Ann Marie Maher, Sport & Leisure Officer, Laois County Council to discuss potential projects for submission to this scheme as early as possible:
Email: sports@laoiscoco.ie
Phone: 057 8664041 or 087 6184404
Measure 2 Mobility, Cancer Care and Community First Responders
This scheme will cover costs of a vehicle and/or the fit out of a vehicle where necessary. The Department encourages the purchase of hybrid/electric vehicles where possible.
Between 80% and 90% funding available
Application forms for Measure 2:
Measure 2 Application Form
Measure 2 Scheme Outline
Completed applications for Measures 2 should be emailed directly to the Department of Rural & Community Development at clar@drcd.gov.ie by 5th June 2024.
Measure 3 ‘Our Islands’
Island Community Transport – community bus/vehicle with an electric charging point which is powered by solar PV panels. ii) Outdoor Community Recreation Amenities – benches, picnic tables/areas, toilets.
Between 80% and 90% funding available
Measure 3 Application Form
Measure 3 Scheme Outline
Completed applications for Measures 3 should be emailed directly to the Department of Rural & Community Development at clar@drcd.gov.ie by Wednesday 19th, June 2024.
