Committee Welcomes New Initiative to Stimulate Rural Tourism

A new project designed to develop tourism in rural areas throughout Northern Ireland has been welcomed by the Assembly Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development.  

Part of the Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Project, the new initiative has a total budget of £20million from which to allocate grants.  Grants will be available for the creation of dedicated walking routes and farm diversification projects, including tourism infrastructure and accommodation.

Chair of the Assembly Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, Paul Frew MLA said: “This is an excellent initiative and one which will be of tremendous benefit to the rural community.  The allocation of grants will encourage the creation of many new business opportunities and will provide the financial support needed in order to stimulate tourism in rural areas.

“We would encourage people to support this initiative and apply for grant assistance if they are interested in developing tourism activities.  The creation of new walking routes will hopefully attract more people to rural areas to enjoy the unique and wonderful countryside and landscape we have in Northern Ireland.”

ENDS