Press Release for Immediate Release -28^th August 2019

 County Calls for Idea’s for Future Development of Outdoor activities

County Carlow is to have its first Outdoor Recreation Strategy which will guide the development of the Carlow Outdoors.  The strategy is being developed by outdoor expert Humphrey Murphy commissioned by Carlow County Council in collaboration with County Carlow Sports Partnership , Carlow Tourism ,Institute of Technology Carlow , Coillte ,Carlow County Development Partnership , Kilkenny Leader Partnership and Carlow Local Community Development Committee.

The purpose of the strategy is to develop and enhance activities for all including existing recreation experiences and facilities and propose an approach to the development of infrastructure to enhance the outdoor recreationalist user experience and is supported under Ireland 2040 Town & Village Renewal Scheme.

Speaking about the strategy , Kathleen Holohan Chief Executive of Carlow County Council stated:

“We are delighted to be able to work in collaboration with our partners in the development of this strategy which will provide a blueprint for the future development of the Carlow Outdoors and would encourage all to engage in the consultation process during September”.

Holohan continued to say:

“We went to hear your views as we see the county's outdoor and recreational attractions as important assets to be appreciated by all”.

Welcoming the development of the strategy Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council Cllr. John Pender said

“I welcome the development of this strategy which will assist us to focus on the vision for County Carlow and pitch for investment in the outdoor experience in County Carlow”

Pender continued to say

“I look forward to hearing the views of the people of County Carlow , our tourists , and clubs and societies in respect of the outdoors and its potential”.

The following public sessions have been organised to hear your views: 

For those who can’t attend the session an online survey version is available for different groups and individuals which will open until 27^th September 2019 so people can express their views:

 Club representatives: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DNDP2CX

Non Carlow residents survey:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DXWHLHQ

Carlow Residents survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CDKW8GZ

Speaking about the importance of the outdoors , Martha Jane Duggan from County Carlow Sports Partnership said

“It is essential we make the best use of our existing outdoor recreation places and, where necessary, provide new places to enjoy the outdoors for the people who live here and for those who visit each year”

Duggan continued to say

“For residents the opportunity to enjoy and engage in the outdoors makes Carlow an attractive place to live and work.  Participation in outdoor recreation activities is growing internationally and the benefits of outdoor active leisure are well documented”

And concluded by saying

“Participation in outdoor activities improves mental and physical health, increases social interaction and builds stronger communities.  This strategy will provides a coordinated approach that will ensure better planning for the development of inclusive services and infrastructure and lead to more efficient long-term management of existing outdoor recreation activities, programs, events and infrastructure”

For further information contact the Local Enterprise Office on 059-9129783 or call e-mail enterprise@carlowcoco.ie

Ends

For further information contact Kieran Comerford on 086-8252037 or e-mail kcomerford@carlowcoco.ie