Ballinfull ‘farm-stay’ plan

AN enterprising couple in north Sligo have lodged plans to create a new ‘farm-stay’ agri-tourism business on their family farm.

Desmond and Mary Carway lodged plans with Sligo County Council last month to convert their existing farm into “an integrated agri-tourism facility” in a bid to secure their future in light of declining farm income.

If they get the go-ahead from county planners, daily guest activities will include gathering eggs, holding chicks, ducklings and goslings, feeding and petting alpacas, lambs and miniature goats and sowing/reaping vegetables and herbs in an organic seaweed garden.

Farm stay guests will enjoy a ‘ lived farm’ experience in the proposed three en-suite bedroom accommodation, communal kitchen/dining/ living areas, a display/resource room, outdoor and indoor farm animal interaction areas and organic garden at Ballymuldorry, Ballinfull.

The Carways told planners in their planning application that the project will “renew and revitalise the existing farm buildings, offering new opportunities and local employment.”

The facility will have a designated interactive small farm animals area, free-range farm poultry with poultry tours and training for guests, an organic seaweed garden providing experience in growing and harvesting farm produce and foraging with scheduled demonstrations with local organic gardeners.

There will also be direct access to Ardtarmon Strand for looped walks of the area.

The agri-tourism farm wil create “at least 2.5” full time jobs.

In late autumn and winter, the Carways intend attracting other tourists such as walking groups, birdwatchers and adventurists.

An old cow path will be used to bring guests to watch the Barnacle geese feeding when they arrive from October to April.

The family says their proposed project will create and sustain their family farm income and employment, re-connect guests with nature and traditional farming practises and create local jobs.

“This rural diversification project is critical to sustain our family’s income. Market research of tourists’ experiences indicates guests seek to be embedded into the culture and/or activities,” they said.

County planners will decide on the proposed agri-tourism project by 9 th July.