Press Release Issue Date 03.04.09

Million Euro Project Announced for Clondara

Waterways Ireland in partnership with Longford County Council and Fáilte Ireland are delighted to announce the development of a boating and tourist destination at Richmond Harbour, Clondara, Co Longford.

The Richmond Harbour development will consist of visitor facilities (information office, showers, toilets), playground, barge garden, hard and soft landscaping as well as street lighting. The project will also entail the development of additional facilities for boats including a pump-out, mooring bollards and landing jetties. This €1m project is being part funded by Fáilte Ireland through the National Development Plan with the balance financed by Longford County Council and Waterways Ireland.

The project is being managed jointly by Longford County Council and Waterways Ireland.

Chief Executive of Waterways Ireland, Mr John Martin commented 'This project will make a significant difference to waterway users as well as the local community, not only by facilitating more community access and services on the site but also through the long term economic benefits of increased boat usage of Richmond Harbour, the Royal Canal and movement to and from the Shannon Navigation'.

Frank Sheridan, Director of Services, Longford County Council stated that 'this important tourism project was identified as a key strategic development for Longford and particularly for Clondra. The opportunity to work in partnership with Waterways Ireland and Failte Ireland on this project highlights the added value that exists in working collaboratively. It is something we anticipate replicating in other areas'.

Damian Brennan, Business Development Manager, Fáilte Ireland East and Midlands Region indicated 'the Lakeland and Inland Waterways are an integral part of our marketing campaign. The River Shannon, it's lakes and tributaries offer a vocal point for tourism development from Lough Erne to the Shannon Estuary. These new facilities in Co Longford will greatly enhance the experience for both the tourist and local alike and are greatly welcomed."