Two tourism and navigation projects in Portumna
WATERWAYS Ireland (WI) has marked the start of works on two significant tourism and navigation projects in Portumna on the River Shannon.
At Connaught Harbour, Minister of State for Disability, Anne Rabbitte TD, and fellow local TDs Ciarán Cannon and Seán Canney, along with Fiona Monaghan and Paddy Mathews from Fáilte Ireland, Alan Farrell from Galway County Council, and Éanna Rowe and Phil Cargill from WI turned the sod on the redevelopment of Connaught Harbour, while at Portumna Bridge, the start of construction of a blueway cycle and pedestrian trail linking Castle and Connaught Harbour was also marked.
Part funded by Fáilte Ireland and stemming from the Shannon Tourism Masterplan and Lough Derg Visitor Experience Development Plan (VEDP), the development consists of a new eight-berth marina at Connaught Harbour, incorporating a boat pumpout with new car parking area and ancillary services.
Quay wall berthing for 22 boats, car parking and a civic area will also be developed at the bridge yard end of Connaught Harbour. This will be facilitated by the removal of three buildings on the site.
Footpaths will be repaired where required and a new road crossing will be developed connecting to the new blueway. The project is expected to open to the public in mid-2023.
Commenting on the day, Minister Anne Rabbitte TD said: “I am delighted to turn the sod on this exciting development. This investment will transform the area as a domestic and international tourist attraction, and for people who live in the vicinity.”
Jim Cullen, chief executive of Galway County Council, said: “This will revitalise this area – and add another attractive amenity to the county – for the people who live here and for visitors.”
WI regional manager Éanna Rowe added: "These projects have significant economic and social benefit and will really increase the recreational and amenity value of this area. I look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Rural and Community Development, Fáilte Ireland and with Galway County Council to bring them to fruition.”