Deadline: 22-May-2026
The 2026 CLÁR Scheme provides targeted funding for small-scale infrastructural projects that strengthen rural communities in Ireland facing socio-economic challenges and population decline. Funding supports community facilities, essential services, and sustainable developments, including recreation spaces, youth centres, sports facilities, and island-specific initiatives under the “Our Living Islands” measure.
Programme Overview
The CLÁR Scheme, administered by the Department of Rural & Community Development & the Gaeltacht, focuses on practical, community-driven infrastructure projects to enhance resilience and quality of life in rural areas. Key objectives include:
- Developing accessible community facilities and amenities
- Supporting mobility and essential services, e.g., cancer care transport and community responders
- Enhancing sustainability in island communities through the Our Living Islands measure
- Encouraging inclusive recreation and cultural engagement for all age groups and abilities
Measure 1: Community Recreation Facilities
Measure 1, managed at the local authority level, supports the improvement and expansion of community recreation facilities with funding of up to 90% of total project cost, capped at €65,000–€100,000 (maximum 2 projects per applicant).
Eligible projects include:
- Indoor and outdoor shared spaces: community centres, youth centres, sports halls
- Sports facilities: tennis courts, basketball courts, cricket grounds, outdoor bowling areas, athletics tracks, astro-turf pitches, multi-use gaming areas, skate parks, cycling tracks
- Additional amenities: toilets, changing rooms, spectator stands, improved accessibility for all abilities
- Recreation and leisure enhancements: community gyms, cinemas, sensory and community gardens, biodiversity initiatives
- Heritage and natural site access: improved access to local heritage sites and natural landscapes
- Sustainability measures: solar bins, mobile emergency generators, initiatives to reduce light pollution
Note: Astro-turf projects must comply with upcoming EU regulations on synthetic materials, including a ban effective in 2031.
Who is Eligible?
- Community groups, organisations, or facilities located within designated CLÁR areas
- Projects must demonstrate clear community need and alignment with local development and climate plans
- Applicants must have necessary permissions and co-funding arrangements in place
- Projects must be ready to commence and accessible to the public
- One application per organisation or facility
How to Apply / How It Works
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your community facility is within a designated CLÁR area and meets project criteria.
- Project Planning: Identify infrastructural improvements aligned with community needs, including recreation, accessibility, or sustainability measures.
- Budget Preparation: Prepare detailed cost estimates, ensuring maximum funding request does not exceed 90% of total cost.
- Submit Application: Apply through the local authority administering Measure 1, including project description, budget, and permissions.
- Evaluation & Selection: Projects are assessed based on community need, alignment with local and climate plans, accessibility, readiness, and compliance.
- Project Implementation: Funded projects must commence promptly and remain accessible to the public.
Why This Scheme Matters
- Strengthens community infrastructure in rural areas at risk of socio-economic decline
- Promotes inclusive recreation and engagement for all ages and abilities
- Enhances sustainability and long-term value, particularly in island communities
- Supports mobility and essential local services
- Fosters community cohesion and resilience
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting proposals for projects outside designated CLÁR areas
- Requesting funding for projects not ready to commence
- Omitting necessary permissions, co-funding, or evidence of community need
- Applying for more than one project per organisation/facility
- Ignoring upcoming EU regulations for astro-turf or synthetic surfaces
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the CLÁR Scheme?
Community groups or organisations with facilities located within designated CLÁR areas.
2. What types of projects are funded?
Small-scale renovations or new developments of community centres, sports and recreation facilities, youth centres, and amenities improving accessibility and sustainability.
3. What is the funding limit?
- Up to 90% of total project cost
- Maximum €65,000–€100,000, depending on project type
- Maximum of two projects per applicant
4. Are island-specific projects supported?
Yes, under the ‘Our Living Islands’ measure, projects can enhance sustainability and community resilience in island communities.
5. Can multiple applications be submitted by the same organisation?
No, only one application per organisation or facility is allowed.
6. Do projects need permissions or co-funding?
Yes, applicants must provide proof of necessary permissions and co-funding arrangements.
7. Are there regulations for astro-turf developments?
Yes, all astro-turf projects must comply with upcoming EU synthetic material regulations, including a 2031 ban.
Conclusion
The 2026 CLÁR Scheme empowers rural communities in Ireland to enhance facilities, improve accessibility, and foster sustainability. By investing in small-scale, practical infrastructure projects, the programme strengthens rural community resilience, supports inclusive engagement, and enhances the quality of life for residents across socio-economically challenged areas and islands.
For more information, visit Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.