Fáilte Ireland has launched a new plan that will help drive and sustain tourism in Killarney, Co. Kerry. Titled the Killarney Destination and Experience Development Plan, it aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years.
Details
Key stakeholders in the area and the local community were consulted and had input into the plan, including Kerry County Council, the Irish Hotels Federation, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation, the Kerry Convention Bureau, and local tourism marketing groups, as well as many local tourism operators and networks.
The focus of the plan builds on a number of destination development projects that will bring local experiences to life, including Muckross House, Torc Waterfall and Killarney House, along with cycling trails that will encourage visitors to discover the Muckross and Dinis Loop.
Statement By CEO Of Fáilte Ireland
Speaking about the plan, Paul Kelly, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, said, “This [Killarney] Destination and Experience Development Plan, which captures the unique themes central to Killarney, is about looking to the future of tourism in the region and will be hugely important as we work towards a sustained and sustainable recovery. It provides a framework for tourism businesses and stakeholders to work in partnership over the next five years, to create new and improved existing visitor experiences. Local consultation and input was central, and this collaborative approach provided local stakeholders with the opportunity to contribute and shape the plan.”
Statement By Kerry County Council’s Chief Executive
Moira Murrell, chief executive, Kerry County Council, stated, “I am delighted to see the Killarney Destination and Experience Development Plan being launched here today. It is a great example of how collaboration is the key to building a sustainable tourism industry here in Killarney and will drive the economic growth for all Kerry.
“Outlined in the plan is a major project for Killarney, which will examine the potential to capitalise on Killarney’s outdoor assets and reimagine its stories through its urban spaces. Developments like this, through public realm and urban animation, have the potential to transform and reimagine Killarney’s urban centre, for both visitors and communities.”
Statement By Irish Hotels Federation Representative
Bernadette Randles, Irish Hotels Federation, stated, “The Wild Atlantic Way continues to be a phenomenal success, and this DEDP gives us the opportunity, as tourism businesses, to capitalise on the popularity of the route and by enticing visitors to come to Killarney and Kerry, particularly in the off-peak season, and stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and experience everything the town and the [Killarney] National Park has to offer.”
More Information
For more information on the Killarney Destination and Experience Development Plan, visit www.failteireland.ie.
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