RURAL tourism in Derry, Limavady, Strabane and
Omagh is set for a boost under the new Northern
Ireland Rural Development Programme.
Applications are being invited under the
'Encouragement of Tourism Activities' for a
share of the total fund of £2.33m available
through the NW Cluster area.
The measure, which closes for applications on
Friday, November 6, is designed to assist B&Bs
with upgrades, cookery schools in rural hotels,
gillies and fishing facilities, cycle hire,
campsites, adventure tourism and holistic
retreats.
The level of support available is up to 50% for
the private sector up to a maximum of £50,000,
and 75% for social economy enterprises including
community groups and local Councils, up to a
maximum of £250,000
Derry Mayor, Councillor Paul Fleming said the
funding on offer would provide important
financial assistance to members of the rural
community across the Derry City Council area.
"It is there to help existing businesses expand
their operations and also to encourage new
business start ups. The criteria will allow for
a wide range of activities and I encourage all
rural tourism providers, or anyone with an idea
for a rural tourism business to get an
application pack and submit their ideas," said
Cllr Fleming. |
