Funding on offer for projects to spruce up Cork's towns and villages 

Cork County Council is inviting expressions of interest for projects aimed at making towns and villages across the county more attractive and sustainable.

Funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) is designed to support the revitalisation of rural Ireland.

The fund aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction, increase footfall into town centres, and support vibrant and sustainable Gaeltacht and island communities.

In recent years, the scheme has supported a wide range of projects across Cork county. These include the acquisition and redevelopment of community facilities, public realm improvements, playground enhancements, walking trail improvements, and the regeneration of vacant buildings.

The Mayor of County Cork Bernard Moynihan said: “Local communities know their areas best, and this scheme enables them to work with Cork County Council to deliver projects that will have a positive and lasting impact.

“I would encourage communities across the county to explore the opportunities available and bring forward their ideas.”

Key priority

The council’s chief executive, Moira Murrell, said that supporting vibrant, resilient and sustainable communities “remains a key priority” for the local authority.

“Through investment in community infrastructure, public realm enhancements, recreational amenities, and the renewal of vacant and underutilised properties, we are helping to create places that are attractive, inclusive, and sustainable.”

The scheme is open to towns and villages with a population under 10,000.

However, towns with a population of up to 15,000 may still be considered, where a high-quality application is received.

Grant funding for projects will range from €50,000 to €500,000, and funding of up to €50,000 per project is also available for pre-development costs to help communities to develop applications for future funding calls.

The 2026 scheme outline, along with expression of interest forms, are available on Cork County Council’s website.

Forms must be submitted by 5pm on Friday, November 13.