Wexford County Council Launches the Local Enhancement Programme 2026, Supporting Community Groups in Disadvantaged Areas
Wexford, 23 January 2026 – Wexford County Council, in conjunction with the Wexford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), is pleased to announce the launch of the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2026.
Wexford has been allocated €253,227 to empower local communities, as part of a nationwide €7 million investment announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD. The 2026 programme is designed to fund small-scale capital projects that improve local facilities or provide essential equipment.
The initiative provides vital capital funding to support community groups and voluntary organisations across County Wexford, with a specific focus on those serving disadvantaged rural and urban areas.
Key Features of the 2026 Programme:
-
No Match-Funding: The programme is 100% exchequer-funded, meaning no match funding is required from applicant groups.
Capital Grants: Funding is available for necessary repairs and improvements to community facilities, as well as the purchase of equipment such as laptops, printers, lawnmowers, tools, and community furniture.
-
Priority Areas: Projects focusing on energy efficiency, accessibility for persons with disabilities, and enhancing participation for marginalised groups are encouraged.
-
Small Grant Ring-fencing: To ensure a wide distribution of funds, 30% of the total allocation is ring-fenced for small capital grants of €1,000 or less.
Commenting on the fund, the Chairperson of the LCDC, Cllr. Aidan Browne said:
“The LEP funding we are announcing for County Wexford today will empower many small communities across the districts, to deliver dozens of small-scale but vital projects in the disadvantaged areas that need them the most. I encourage all interested groups to make their applications as this, in turn, helps the Council to support them in their fabulous work serving their own communities”.
Eligibility & Application Process:
The programme is open to all not-for-profit community or voluntary groups based in County Wexford. Commercial organisations and individuals are not eligible to apply.
Applications must be submitted through the Wexford County Council online portal www.wexfordcoco.ie/lep. The closing date for all applications is Friday, 27th February 2026, at 17:00 HRS.
Contact Information:
For further details on the Local Enhancement Programme 2026, please visit the Wexford County Council website or contact the Community Development Section at community@wexfordcoco.ie or 053-919 6851.