A 15-YEAR plan has been launched to increase the quality and quantity of recreational trails in the Ballyhoura region, which takes in Limerick.
Ballyhoura Development launched the new Ballyhoura Trails Masterplan at Griston Bog in Ballylanders.
The masterplan aims to increase accessibility to trails in the region, as well as set goals relating to geographic diversity and international appeal.
The Ballyhoura trails have grown to become an important part of the local economy and a critical part of the region’s identity over the last 30 years.
Over 450 members of the local community were consulted in the masterplanning process, including businesses, community groups, volunteers, and trail users.
Mary Laffan, chairperson of Ballyhoura Development CLG expressed “gratitude to Outscape and the staff of Ballyhoura Development who have led and facilitated the process on the ground to ensure that all voices are heard in the development of this strategy”.
Marie Healy, projects officer for Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands at Fáilte Ireland said that the organisation “welcomes the launch of the Ballyhoura Trails Masterplan. Ballyhoura is an important part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and this masterplan will help enhance its tourism offering by integrating the various trail types into a cohesive visitor and community experience”.
It is hoped that the plan will provide a framework for communities and activities across the region to align plans with, and that it is strongly supported and considered by the Fáilte Ireland Destination and Experience Development Plan for the region in the months and years ahead.
