CLÁR Scheme

CLÁR 2025 Measure 1: Developing community facilities & amenities

Call for Expressions of Interest

Clare County Council is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from eligible organisations for projects under Measure 1 of the CLÁR 2025 Programme, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD).

This measure supports the development and enhancement of community facilities and amenities in designated CLÁR areas. The goal is to help build stronger, more resilient rural communities.

Community groups are strongly encouraged to liaise with their local Rural and Community Development Officer in advance of submitting an Expression of Interest.

Who can apply?

Expressions of Interest are welcome from:

• Schools (where facilities are open to the public outside school hours)
• Community and voluntary groups
• Local development companies
• Sporting organisations (if the proposed facility benefits the wider community)

Types of projects supported

Eligible projects must relate to a single facility and may include:

• Renovation or upgrade of community centres, youth hubs, men’s sheds, or sports clubhouses
• Outdoor recreational facilities (playgrounds, pump tracks, walking/running tracks, MUGAs, astro-turf)
• Community/sensory gardens, allotments, biodiversity planting
• Outdoor gyms, community cinemas, accessibility enhancements, solar bins
• Car parking and enhanced changing/toilet facilities

Note: All facilities must be accessible to the public and accommodate all ages and abilities.

Funding available

• Grant Range: €5,000 – €65,000 (up to €100,000 for two larger projects per Local Authority)
• Match Funding: A minimum of 10% must be provided by the applicant or philanthropic sources
• Funding Rate: Up to 90% of total eligible project cost

Project requirements

• Located in a designated CLÁR area
• Must be shovel-ready (permissions, match funding, and ownership/lease in place)
• Owned or held on a 15-year lease
• Publicly accessible without membership or appointments
• Project must be maintained and operational for at least 5 years

Ineligible projects

• Road and pedestrian safety measures (e.g. footpaths, crossings)
• School-only facilities, bus shelters, CCTV, or road markings

How to apply

1. Read the scheme outline
2. Complete an Expression of Interest Form, ensuring all required documentation is included
3. Submit your completed form to: CLAR@clarecoco.ie by 4:00 p.m., Friday, 23 May 2025

For queries or support, please contact: Email: CLAR@clarecoco.ie

Important note

The deadline for submitting Expressions of Interest to Clare County Council differs from the Department of Rural and Community Development’s deadlines. This allows the Council to review and shortlist projects before submission to the Department. Final funding decisions rest with the Department of Rural and Community Development.