Jail could be part of ‘cluster’ of local attractions – and even host weddings

HERITAGE, history and tourism come together in the findings of the feasibility study on the future of Sligo Gaol. The 97-page report was compiled for the Friends of Sligo Gaol and Sligo County Council.

CHL Consulting, the authors of the study, said they look forward to the jail becoming a flagship project after a phased development.

The study recommendations state: “The ultimate ambition for a visitor experience at Sligo Gaol is to develop a flagship attraction that will not only share the stories of the historic site but also boost tourism in Sligo town.” They point out that internationally there are numerous instances of historic gaols that are open to the public – most serving a variety of community, civic and tourism purposes. Examples in Ireland include Kimainham Gaol, Wicklow Gaol, Cork City Gaol and Crumlin Road Gaol. They see Sligo Gaol forming part of a local cluster of attractions adding to the tourism product. CHL Consulting said: “It is worth noting that Sligo, while on the successful Wild Atlantic Way route for visitors, is nevertheless a considerable distance from the more popular tourism destinations and from international access points. “This means that it will need to offer a cluster of attractions in order to develop as a significant tourism destination that will attract visitors in its own right, and that is not simply relying on passing tourists. “Specifically, within Sligo town itself, the Gaol occupies a central location – only 10 minutes’ walk from The Model arts centre and less than 15 minutes from the Yeats Building.” The study findings also see educational benefits flowing from for the project.

It said: “Primary and secondary schools are continually seeking new, curriculum-linked, destinations for school tours as well as venues for Transition Year programmes. In the case of Sligo Gaol, it can consider not only schools within Sligo to be its catchment, but also those in Mayo, Donegal, Leitrim and Roscommon.” They point out that there may also be opportunity to develop links and programmes with history, archaeology and sociology students and professionals at IT Sligo and other third level institutions.

In the longer term, when all phases are complete, the study findings envisage the jail becoming a venue for local events: “There is potential for Sligo Gaol to host a range of events, primarily domestic, including meetings corporate events, private events, PR launches and small weddings.”