Trails strategy launched

THE Clare Trails Strategy 2012-15 has just been launched.
Cyril Killeen, trails animator, explained the background to the initiative. “The Clare Trails Steering Group was established in 2006 with the introduction of Shannon Development’s Shannon Region Trails Programme. The steering group brought together all the relevant bodies involved in walking trails in County Clare in order to progress the development, maintenance and promotion of walking, cycling and other activity trails in the county.
“The vision of the Clare Trails Steering Group is that through the implementation of this strategy, new trails will be created and existing trails in the region will be further developed and expanded to enhance the attractiveness of Clare as a place to visit and live.”
A key aspect of trail development is the economic value that can accrue to an area. “In 2010, approximately 920,000 overseas visitors to Ireland participated in some form of outdoor activity and this generated in the region of €830 million in tourism revenue,” said rural recreation officer, Eimear McCarthy.
“Clare is currently well positioned to capitalise on this segment. The county has four national waymarked ways, over 20 looped day walks, a number of long-distance cycle routes, as well as a national cycling hub at Doolin.
“Since its formation, the Clare Trails Steering Group has been working on a project-by-project basis, liasing with communities and landowners to identify and develop trail opportunities in the county. In 2010, the group identified the need to take a more long-term approach to the development and promotion of trails in the county and undertook a process of consultation and facilitated discussions with the wider community, as well as steering group members.
“This led to the development of this three-year Recreational Trails Strategy, which commenced implementation in 2012.”