Mayo County Council welcomes today’s Fáilte Ireland announcement of a €500,000 grant for Belmullet as an emerging destination town. The funding, which is part of a €15.5m nationwide rollout under the State tourism body’s ‘Destination Towns’ initiative, will see the bulk of the monies being used to enhance the North Mayo town as a tourist destination.
The Wild Atlantic Way destination town of Belmullet was chosen by Mayo County Council and was successfully selected due to it’s capacity and appeal in attracting international visitors for overnight stays, a range of food offerings to meet visitor needs and a variety of tourist attractions.
Mayo County Council Chief Executive, Peter Hynes, welcomed today’s announcement; “The importance of tourism as an economic driver and source of employment cannot be overstated. It is a unique industry in terms of its ability to spur local job creation and sustain rural communities.
Belmullet’s strategic location on the Wild Atlantic Way provides it with a unique appeal for tourists who wish to visit the area. The scheme will provide funding for Mayo County Council to enhance Belmullet’s public spaces in a way that will engage tourists and enhance their experience in the town.”
Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Brendan Mulroy said; “I am delighted that Belmullet and Mayo are to benefit from this new initiative. This funding will allow greater engagement with tourists and enhance their experience while visiting North Mayo.
Congratulations must go to those who have worked hard in getting this project over the line both in Mayo County Council’s Tourism Department and those in the local community who make Belmullet what it is.”
Padraig Philbin, Head of Tourism with Mayo County Council, believes there is untapped potential in the North Mayo town; “Belmullet is a town with much untapped potential and Mayo County Council aims to make it a destination where tourists will want to stay longer and experience the unique local culture. The funding provided by Fáilte Ireland will give Belmullet a major boost in becoming one of the best places to visit in Mayo.”
