A feasibility study is underway into the development of a Mourne and Strangford Lough walking path along the coastline from Portavogie to Greencastle, near Kilkeel.
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Councillor Naomi Baillie, Chairperson of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, said a coastal walkway would be an asset to local tourism.[/caption]
The feasibility study has been commissioned by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Ards & North Down Borough Council and Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT).
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Naomi Bailie said, “Outdoor activity and access to the countryside forms a large part of the tourism and recreational activity across both council areas. The development of such a coastal path would be a great asset for the wider Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough tourism destinations”.
The study involves a comprehensive technical audit of the proposed route and consultation process, whilst also identifying options to develop tourism experiences.
It is envisaged that a coastal walking route could be a community and tourism asset including complementing the existing Mourne Coastal Driving Route.
A draft report on the findings regarding the feasibility of the project is due in July. If a coastal trail is deemed feasible and desirable by both councils and MHT, further consultation and planning will be carried out.
Outdoor Recreation NI, in partnership with Doran Consulting, has been appointed to carry out the technical feasibility of the coastal path on behalf of both councils and the MHT.
South Down MLA Chris Hazzard has welcomed the feasibility study into the development of a Mourne & Strangford Coastal Walking Path, stretching from Portavogie to Greencastle, near Kilkeel, saying: “If done right the Coastal Path will give local people and tourists alike the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular surroundings, natural beauty and heritage that is abundant throughout the Mourne and Lecale area.
“The development of a Mourne & Strangford Coastal Path has the potential to be a great asset for South Down. I welcome the fact that a public consultation has been completed by Outdoor Recreation NI on behalf of the both Newry, Mourne & Down, North Down & Ards Councils and the Mourne Heritage Trust.
“I was encouraged to hear local residents and community stakeholders have engaged with the consultation in a positive manner and I await the report from the consultation with great anticipation”
(This feasibility project is funded by the European Union and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development through Axis 4 of the European Fisheries fund, delivered by the Fisheries Local Action Group in conjunction with Newry Mourne & Down District Council.)
The last of the four public consultation meetings open to the public takes place in Portavogie Community Centre on Thursday 25 June at 7pm.
Please email: fiona@outdoorrecreationni.com
to confirm your attendance.]]>
