Today, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council announced the launch of their new, ambitious Tourism Strategy aimed at transforming the County into a top tourist destination by 2028. The vision is for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown to be known as a connected and immersive destination, offering enriching and unique experiences along the coast, in the Dublin Mountains, and in attractive villages and friendly towns.
Councillor Denis O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said, “I am delighted to welcome this ambitious new tourism strategy for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown which sets out a roadmap to increase the number of visitors to the County as well as safeguarding our natural and built heritage, unique culture, and biodiversity. Our area is steeped in culture and maritime heritage, combining breathtaking coastlines, inviting villages and towns alongside Dublin Mountains adventures delivering memorable and distinct experiences for visitors.”
Plans for the area include the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan, Open-Air Archaeology and/or Coastal Heritage Museum, nighttime economy plan, motorhome & glamping accommodation options, new conference centre, and potential for a cable car development in the Dublin Mountains. With adventure and active tourism on the rise, opening the coast and activating the mountains will set Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown apart to attract local and international visitors.
At the official launch, Catherine Martin T.D. Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media said, “We are blessed in Ireland to have a superb tourism offering. While the sector faced incredible challenges in recent years, particularly with the Covid pandemic, I am determined to see tourism continuing to play a key part in our economic development. With this in mind, I will publish a new Tourism Policy Framework this year which will shape how our tourism industry develops in the period to 2030.
“In this regard, while it will aim to grow the tourism sector, the objective will be to do so in a manner that is consistent with our broader sustainability targets. Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown’s new tourism strategy as launched today has a strong focus on these aims and I look forward to seeing the tourism sector thrive in the area in the years ahead.”
With its good transport network and infrastructure including the Coastal Mobility Route, which is recognised as one of the best-performing routes in the Dublin region, and further development of Greenways, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown is well-positioned to become a top tourist destination in Ireland. The County offers a wide range of natural and built attractions, including eight major parks, Dún Laoghaire harbour, the magnificent stretch of coastline and local swimming areas such as Sandycove, 40foot and Killiney Beach.
Frank Curran, Chief Executive, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said, “Tourism in the County generates €126 million annually with over 3,000 tourism-based jobs, and this strategy outlines our commitment to lead in the development of tourism services and supports over the next five years. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown has a key role to play within the Dublin region in leaving a lasting impression on visitors, one that will encourage repeat visits and longer stays.
“Through recent developments – the dlr LexIcon, Dún Laoghaire Baths, various museum enhancements, new trails including the Coastal Mobility Route, and supporting hospitality facilities – the County has a significant opportunity to develop and capitalise on the wider tourism offering.”
By developing and promoting a range of local festivals, crafts and cultural events throughout the county, tourism contributes to the sustainability of creative industries, encourages the growth of small businesses and provides opportunities for jobs and career development while also enhancing the quality of life for residents.
You can read the full Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Tourism Strategy 2024-2028 here.
(Source: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council)