€200,025 for permanent outdoor dining facilities in two Mayo town centres

FUNDING of €200,025 has been allocated to Mayo County Council to develop permanent outdoor dining facilities in Mayo at two different locations.

A sum of €98,725 has been awarded in respect of Market Square in Castlebar, with a further €101,300 for Market Square in Claremorris.

Deputy Michael Ring, in welcoming the allocations, explained: “Fáilte Ireland’s Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme opened for applications in March 2021 and comprises two parts. Today’s announcement relates to part two of the scheme.

“All local authorities were invited to apply to Fáilte Ireland for funding under part two - Local Authority Weatherproofing & Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme - to develop streets and public spaces to facilitate year-round weather-proofed outdoor dining in urban tourism centres.”

Part one of the scheme - Outdoor Seating and Accessories - supports individual hospitality businesses with grants of up to €4,000 for seating, tables and outdoor accessories. The closing date for receipt of applications is September 30.

“The aim of this scheme is to support tourism and hospitality jobs and help businesses develop new ways of catering for domestic and international tourists outdoors,” said Deputy Ring. “Outdoor dining and hospitality will now be a year-round feature of our hospitality offering and businesses need to be supported to facilitate this.”

Deputy Dillon commented: “The implementation of the Local Authority Weatherproofing and Outdoor Dining Enhancement scheme will be hugely beneficial for Castlebar and Claremorris, enhancing infrastructure and allowing local hospitality businesses to adapt and develop their offering.

“I warmly welcome the contribution of Fáilte Ireland, who are providing over €200,000 to two large town in County Mayo, and congratulate Mayo County Council on their successful application and I look forward to seeing the work commence.”