Fáilte Ireland has launched a new plan to help drive and sustain tourism in Clew Bay.
Entitled the ‘Clew Bay Destination and Experience Development Plan’, the plan aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years.
Key stakeholders in the area and the local community were consulted and provided input to the plan, including Mayo County Council, the Office of Public Works, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Westport Chamber of Commerce and local tourism marketing groups as well as many local tourism operators and networks.
The focus of the plan builds on a number of destination development projects that will bring local experiences to life, including the restoration of the house and gardens at Westport Estate, the enhancement of the visitor experience at Croagh Patrick and a number of trails to encourage visitors to explore the region including the Clew Bay Bike Trail.
Speaking about the plan, Paul Kelly, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, said: "This Destination and Experience Development Plan, which captures the unique themes central to Clew Bay, is about looking to the future of tourism in the region and will be hugely important as we work towards recovery.
"It provides a framework for tourism businesses and stakeholders to work in partnership over the next five years to create new and improved existing visitor experiences. Local consultation and input was central and this collaborative approach provided local stakeholders with the opportunity to contribute and shape the plan."
Commenting on the plan, Kevin Kelly, CEO of Mayo County Council, said: "With a unique combination of islands from Achill Island to Inishturk and a backdrop of mountains including the iconic Croagh Patrick, Clew Bay has attracted visitors and pilgrims for centuries.
"We are delighted to work with Fáilte Ireland and the Clew Bay Tourism Network who will now take on the role of steering the implementation of this new long-term plan, which will help increase dwell time and revenue without compromising the environment or culture of the region."
