This article is from page 6 of the 2011-07-19 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 6 JPG
THE opening of the historic landmark that is the Loop Head Lighthouse to the public for the first time in its 117-year history is the first step towards realising the tourism potential of west Clare.
That was the message delivered by Clare County Council Director of Service Ger Dollard on Monday as the famous lighthouse landmark – that dates from 1854 – opened its doors as part of a trial visitor scheme being pioneered by the local authority.
“This trial will enable us to establish valuable information on visitor patterns in the area and the view of the public on further expansion of the tourist offering at Loop Head,” said Mr Dollard.
“In the autumn, we will be continuing to work with our partners in Shannon Development and Loop Head tourism to arrive at a consensus on the future development of the tourism product.
“Clare County Council would like to acknowledge the tremendous assistance and co-operation of the Commissioners of Irish Lights in progressing this exciting tourism initiative,” he added.
Welcoming the initiative, Shannon Development’s Ruairi Deane said, “This is another major step in enhancing west Clare’s tourism product offering. Our work on the project is part of a range of initiatives that we have undertaken this year in west Clare, which include new loop walks in Lissycasey and Kilkee, with more projects in the pipeline. We look forward to welcoming an increased number of visitors to the area.”
From 1854 to 1991, the existing tower-style lighthouse was maintained by a keeper who lived within the lighthouse compound. Loop Head Lighthouse will be open to the public from 10am to 4pm daily.