Feedback from the meeting of 10th Sept. 2019
Provided by Leitrim PPN Representative to the Leitrim Recreation Forum, Francie Gilmartin.
“The new Chairperson Mike Feeney stressed that he was amazed at all the work (and proud as a Leitrim native ) Leitrim had done to promote tourism in the County . Demonstration stretches for Manorhamilton /Ballinamore/Dromahair all proceeding well . To get Greenway funding it was stated that you would need funding to get projects ready to present for grand aid . Sligo Leitrim North Connaught Railway open day/ event to highlight the work of the community in developing the demonstration stretch.
About Leitrim Recreation Forum
Leitrim Recreation Forum oversees the implementation of the Strategy in County Leitrim which provides a roadmap for the future development of recreation in the county. Members of the Forum represent local communities, recreational enthusiasts, and businesses and statutory agencies. Leitrim Development Company is a member of the Forum and also provides support to the Chairperson in coordinating activities of the Forum and its working groups.
About the Strategy
In its development, the current countryside recreation assets and infrastructure of the county were reviewed. A significant amenity base is already in place for land and water-based outdoor recreation, although there is much scope for further enhancement and development.
The most popular activities are walking, hillwalking, cycling, angling, equestrian, rowing, surfing, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, while others enjoy the natural environment and ‘tranquillity’ factor that Leitrim offers.
More extreme endurance sports have shown a significant increase in local and visitor participation 2009-2014. Potholing, mountain and hill running are more popular in the Leitrim Landscape, while Operation Transformation start-up joggers and walkers are a regular sight in every Leitrim town and village. Much of these require little or no developed physical infrastructure, but events promoting such activities require management resources.
A significant base of environmental education and awareness exists in the county which complements the overall recreational product. Similarly, there is a strong community heritage base, which informs the activities available, and adds to the overall recreation experience in County Leitrim.
Seven thematic areas were identified for priority action under the Recreation Strategy.
- Water Adventure Based
- Angling
- Walking Trails
- Land Based
- Rail to Trail Projects
- Shannon Erne Waterway
- Lough Allen Basin
To find out more about the Strategy download Leitrim Recreation Strategy: A Roadmap for the Future Development of Recreation in County Leitrim
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