Council unveils ambitious framework for the development of tourism in County Leitrim

Leitrim County Council has unveiled an ambitious framework for the development of tourism in County Leitrim.

The ‘Tourism in Leitrim Review and Framework 2023 - 2027’ was officially launched by Cathaoirleach Justin Warnock on Friday, 17th November, at the annual Tourism workshop.

The prioritised strategic directions focus on Infrastructure & Experience Development, Fast Tracking Entrepreneurship, Collaboration, Sales, Marketing and Digital transformation and Sustainability. 

L-R, Mary McCormack – Drumkeeran Holiday Homes, Nuala McNulty – Tawnylust Lodge, Gerry Creamer – The Bee Park, Dave Price – Fish Tracker, Eileen Gibbons – Electric Trails, Pamela Ruddy – Moon River, Ciara Armstrong – Leitrim Quay. Pictures: Brian Farrell

30 Strategic priorities set out in the plan include working collaboratively to develop the profile, experiences and infrastructure of County Leitrim and working with community partners to strengthen the role of towns and villages as destination hubs. Other strategic priorities include:

• Working with SLNCR to secure and sustain new routes.
• Prioritising the development of Blueways and Greenways.
• Establishing sustainable travel options designed to support tourism.

L-R, Joseph Gilhooly, Chief Executive, Leitrim County Council (Interim), Justin Warnock Cathaoirleach, Leitrim County Council, Emer Connolly SEO Economic Development, Leitrim County Council, Justin Fannon, Director of Service, Leitrim County Council.

Commenting on the Strategy, Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Justin Warnock, said, “I am confident that the implementation of the actions as set out in the Framework will provide a foundation for the continuation of sustainable growth of tourism in County Leitrim and will result in the county maximising its potential as a destination of choice for many domestic and overseas visitors.”

“We want to attract more visitors to Leitrim in the future and spread the benefits of tourism across the county in a way that enriches our communities while, at the same time, maintaining our distinctive identity and protecting our natural environment,” added Cllr Warnock.

Cllr Sean McGowan and Cllr Sean McDermott at the launch.

Developed on behalf of Leitrim County Council by consultancy firm Bane Mullarkey Consultants, the 5-year framework has been overseen by Leitrim County Council with extensive consultation from various stakeholders, local tourism industry, and community groups.

“While the Strategy was prepared for Leitrim County Council, it is designed to be a roadmap for all businesses, communities, and government partners and agencies, and the success of its implementation will be dependent on a collaborative approach,” outlined Joseph Gilhooly, Chief Executive (Interim) of Leitrim County Council.

“The framework will provide a focus on marketing and communication mechanisms through the use of web and digital technology as well as promoting collaboration with the key stakeholders and building on industry collaboration and capability through tourism awareness programmes and training plans, preparation of visitor service plans and business to business network,” stated Mr Gilhooly.

Mr Gilhooly added that the Strategy contains a “clear focus on developing tourism as a driver for economic development, rural development and visitor spend, and a dispersal of benefits to the wider community”.

Paddy Mathews, Failte Ireland, Head of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, and Eva Costello, Failte Ireland Team Manager, Wild Atlantic Way.

The Tourism Depart of Leitrim County Council  were the recent winners of the prestigious Travel Industry Awards for Best County Tourism Initiative in Ireland.  This is in recognition of the excellent visitor experience that is provided by the tourism businesses of Leitrim

A soft copy of the Strategy is available from Leitrim County Council by emailing info@leitrimtourism.com