Carlow County Council is delighted to announce a €4.2 million grant allocation from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media under the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund for the development of the Carlow Water Activity Centre. This ambitious project will rejuvenate Carlow Town’s riverfront, providing much-needed recreational and sporting facilities for residents, clubs, and visitors. The Centre brings to life a core objective of the Carlow County Development Plan (2022–2028), creating a water-based activity hub that will serve as a dynamic community and tourism asset for the region. The site was also identified as an opportunity for development in Project Carlow 2040 - A vision for Regeneration
“The Carlow Water Activity Centre is designed to be more than just a recreational space; it’s a long-term investment in our community’s health and connection to our natural environment. This Centre will serve as a legacy for future generations, supporting active lifestyles and instilling a lifelong appreciation for Carlow’s beautiful riverside.
“By establishing this Centre, we are creating a sustainable resource that will benefit Carlow’s young people and families for decades to come. It’s an asset that will promote a love for water sports and outdoor activity, offering more opportunities to participate to the community.”
— Cllr Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach, Carlow County Council
The Carlow Water Activity Centre will offer comprehensive facilities designed to support water sports and recreational activities, including secure storage for rowing and dragon boat clubs, changing rooms and rental units for water-based activities. Additional public amenities such as a terrace, public seating, and a pedestrian boardwalk linking to the Town Park will further integrate the riverfront with the town, making it a welcoming destination for all.
“The Carlow Water Activity Centre will be a place where community meets opportunity, providing residents of all ages and abilities with access to water sports, leisure facilities, and social spaces. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where people can come together, be active, and enjoy the natural beauty of Carlow’s riverfront.
“This Centre embodies Carlow County Council’s commitment to creating spaces that support health, wellbeing, and social connection. We envision it as a dynamic sporting hub that will bring people together, encourage active lifestyles, and strengthen our community ties.”
— Cllr Fintan Phelan, Mayor of Municipal District of Carlow
The project has already secured planning permission, with environmental impact assessments completed as of October 2022, and is ready to break ground. As a strategic component of Carlow’s Urban Regeneration initiative, the Water Activity Centre is set to enhance the town’s relationship with its river while supporting local tourism and the regional economy.
“The Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund is critical in bringing visionary projects like the Carlow Water Activity Centre to life. This funding allows us to enhance our town’s infrastructure, create jobs, and reinvigorate our urban landscape in a way that benefits all. The Centre will play a central role in the ongoing regeneration of Carlow, adding lasting value to our community and attracting more visitors to the town.
“Investments like these in sports infrastructure not only enrich the quality of life for our residents but also drive sustainable growth. The Carlow Water Activity Centre aligns with our long-term vision of a connected, thriving town, where urban regeneration and community wellbeing go hand in hand.”
— Coilín O’Reilly, Chief Executive, Carlow County Council
This funding underscores Carlow County Council’s commitment to creating vibrant, accessible recreational spaces that encourage active lifestyles and foster community pride. Upon completion, the Carlow Water Activity Centre will stand as a key community resource, promoting health, inclusion, and sustainability for a thriving Carlow.
For further information, please contact:
Michael Brennan
Director of Services - Community Development, Recreation, Amenity, Sports, Arts, Culture, Libraries, Museum & Heritage.
mbrennan@carlowcoco.ie