Funding boost for rural communities in SOAR cluster area

Thousands of people living in the rural areas of Armagh, Craigavon and Newry & Mourne will soon benefit from a second injection of vital funding specifically earmarked for innovative rural development projects.

The second call for funding from the Northern Ireland Rural Development programme was launched on 11th November 2009 by the Southern Organisation for Action in Rural Areas Partnership (SOAR) – which is made up of local Councillors and community representatives from across the three Council areas.

The event, which took place in The Downshire Arms Hotel in Hilltown, was hosted by the Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council, Councillor John Feehan, who said “We are delighted to be able to host this event in Hilltown, one of the rural areas that can benefit from this fantastic funding opportunity. Rural Development funding is an excellent vehicle for the development of sustainable rural services”

The funding, which has been made available through The Department of Agriculture & Rural Development and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, will ensure rural communites across the SOAR cluster area will benefit from significant investment for initiatives which will help to improve the quality of life in rural communities.
In the second call for applications, proposals can be made under three of the six rural development themes:

Basic services for the economy and rural population
Village renewal and development
Conservation and upgrading of rural heritage

Announcing the second release of funds, Mr Miceal McCoy, Chairman of the SOAR Local Action Group, said: “We are hopeful that this substantial rural development funding will make a real difference to the lives of rural residents throughout the area and encourage an innovative approach to the delivery of rural services. This funding provides an excellent opportunity for communities to help deliver services to bridge gaps in local provision, support village improvement plans and benefit the cluster areas, conservation and heritage assets.”

Councillor Josephine O’Hare, Chairperson of SOAR Joint Committee, highlighted the potentially significant impact which the rural development funding could have on rural communities and businesses:
“As Chair of the Joint Committee, I’m delighted to announce the opening of this vital funding for the community and voluntary sector. It is an excellent opportunity for these sectors to apply for much needed funding for the delivery of rural services that will help address a range of issues encountered by rural residents.”

The programme will open on the 16th November and close on the 1st February 2010 at 4.00p.m.
A series of funding clinics have been organised across the cluster area to help applicants discuss their project ideas with SOAR staff in more detail.

If you would like details on how to access application forms under any of the measures or to find out how the programme can benefit your business or community or to attend any of the funding clincis, please contact any of the three Southern Organisation for Action in Rural Areas in your local area on:

Craigavon Borough Council – 028 3831 2588
Armagh City & District Council – 028 3752 9600
Newry & Mourne District Council – 028 3086 8900