KELT KELT
Development of Kildare’s Rural Tourism industry is part of the KELT brief. Leader funding is ideally suited for people, or groups, who wish to develop a tourism venture to boost their income. KELT can assist with funding for marketing, modernising existing accommodation, converting old buildings of character and providing self-catering accommodation.
KELT will give a special priority to marketing as part of its job of promoting rural tourism. In all aspects of its tourism brief it will work closely with Kildare’s regional tourism organisation MERTO. It will place an emphasis on promoting group rural tourism development as the most effective way of putting in place a coherent package covering accommodation, facilities, activities and marketing.
An application to KELT for a tourism project should fit in with regional plans for the development of the industry in Kildare. It must meet, or aim to meet, national standards and receive Bord Fáilte approval before the grant is paid. Special provision should be made, where possible, for projects involving improved access for the disabled.
KELT can provide aid for tourist accommodation if that is required in an area. This can be granted to modernise existing tourist accommodation, provide new Bed and Breakfast promoters with funding for accommodation in existing buildings, or provide extra bedrooms for existing operators. Old buildings of character could be converted for tourist use and new self-catering accommodation can be funded. KELT has to ensure that there is no funding of duplicate projects in the area.
However, KELT cannot grant funds for the construction of new houses or for repairs in existing accommodation. Hotels are not eligible for funding under Leader. Golf courses are also excluded.
In addition to accommodation, Leader II can provide funding for other tourist related ventures. Boats bought for tourism related projects are an eligible expense provided they are new and meet all safety regulations.
The maximum grant for accommodation is 20%. All other tourism grants may be provided up to 50% of the cost.
A maximum grant of £50,000 will apply to all projects.
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KELT - The Woods, Clane, Co. Kildare. TEL: +353 45 861973. FAX: +353 45 861975