Galway County Council has officially launched an ambitious new strategy aimed at protecting and enhancing the county’s unique natural, built, and cultural heritage. The Galway County Heritage and Biodiversity Plan 2024–2030 was unveiled at the Marine Institute in Rinville on Tuesday, marking a significant step in the county’s approach to climate action and sustainable community development.
What sets this plan apart is its integrated approach, Galway is the first county in Ireland to fully combine heritage and biodiversity goals in a single roadmap. The plan outlines key actions over the next six years, including a comprehensive biodiversity audit of council-owned lands, a countywide Tree and Hedgerow Management Plan, and updates to Galway’s Invasive Alien Species Strategy.
Peatlands and archaeological sites earmarked
Sensitive ecosystems such as peatlands and marine habitats will receive focused attention, while biodiversity education will be delivered in collaboration with the Public Participation Network. On the heritage front, the plan supports conservation of built and archaeological sites, promotes community engagement, and fosters awareness through education and training.
Cultural heritage is another major pillar, with initiatives planned to digitise oral histories, support local arts, and expand community-led heritage projects. The strategy also commits to increased investment in staffing and resources to ensure long-term sustainability.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Martina Kinane called the plan a “shared commitment” to Galway’s heritage, urging communities to get involved. “In the face of climate change and biodiversity loss, this is a roadmap for collective action,” she said.
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, described the plan as “action-driven” and thanked the many contributors, including the Galway County Heritage and Biodiversity Forum and The Heritage Council. “This plan celebrates our heritage while promoting resilience and environmental stewardship,” he added.
Inclusive and representative of the people it serves
The last heritage plan (2017–2022 ) led to several key achievements, including the Digitising Galway’s Graveyard Heritage project and a Barn Owl Conservation initiative that showed the species’ first signs of recovery in five decades.
The new plan was shaped through extensive public consultation, including engagement with schools, community groups, and over 450 public submissions. Marie Mannion, Galway’s Heritage Officer, emphasised that the plan is “inclusive and representative of the people it serves.”
With support from national agencies, experts, and the wider community, Galway County Council's newly adopted plan aims to lead by example by safeguarding the county's heritage and biodiversity for future generations to enjoy.
Speaking on the launch of the report, Rosina Joyce, Biodiversity Officer for Galway County Council said, "By promoting sustainable practices and innovative solutions, we aim to create a legacy of resilience for future generations."
