This article is from page 33 of the 2008-03-04 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 33 JPG
THE people of the Burren are being given their final chance to get their spoke in ahead of the launch of a number of exciting new tourism ini- tiatives in the area.
The Ennistymon based Burren Connect Project is asking for any last suggestions before a range of new projects designed to foster a partner- ship approach to visitor management and environmental protection in the Burren will be unveiled.
Some of the most interesting ideas put forward by the project include the provision of information hubs at various locations throughout the Burren, the creation of designated viewing points for tourists and an
information booklet for hospitality businesses in north Clare and south Cr Ea
“The project team is currently fi- nalising the delivery of a number of programmes on information provi- sion and education, traffic manage- ment, conservation and access at Poulnabrone and Fanore, market research, and investigating the suit- ability of the Burren for designation as a Geopark,” said Carol Gleeson of the Burren Connect Project.
“In 2008 the team will continue fo- cusing efforts on education, training, socio-economic research, develop- ment of trails, traffic management, conservation and amenity projects, and ongoing monitoring and man- agement of developed areas.”
The Burren Connect Project was established in 2006 with funding from the Failte Ireland Development Scheme Fund, in partnership with Clare County Council, Shannon De- velopment, National Parks and Wild- life Service, National Monuments Service and Burrenbeo.
“The issues surrounding the pro- tection and sustainable use of a land- scape are complex and multiple. A truly sustainable approach to tourism can only be achieved with involve- ment and contribution from local communities,’ continued Carol.
“Thus, an important part of the project’s remit is to facilitate such contributions. The project will con- tinue to hold public consultation meetings on issues that have a direct
impact on communities in the Bur- ren.”
Recent public meetings organised by the Burren Connect Project have concentrated on such issues as traf- fic management on the Coast Road, signage and branding.
‘Future meetings will be advertised in local newspapers, parish newslet- ters and on local radio. They will also be posted on the new project website, which will feature a dedicated dis- cussion area, where people can offer suggestions and feedback in an open public forum,” said Carol.