A historic estate in County Fermanagh is set to be transformed into a new leading tourism and leisure destination.

The proposal for Necarne Estate in Irvinestown has been approved, which will see the popular grounds include a holiday retreat with a range of accommodation; outdoor activities; enhanced walkways and cycle paths; an equestrian trail; events space and reinstatement of Necarne lake.

The proposed lease would run for 99 years, ensuring the public continues to enjoy access to the Estate free of charge for walking, cycling, horse-riding and dog walking, and that existing access is further enhanced through reinstatement of the main gate.

Plans are in development for a multi-sports centre and the Council has commissioned a feasibility study into the development of such a facility.

The Council is also investigating the options for Necarne Castle with the long-term ambition to redevelop the Castle for wider community benefit and to that of the local heritage.

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Gardrum Holdings Ltd is leading the project with support from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and Councillor for Erne North, Siobhán Currie said: "The Council has been working through a lengthy and robust process regarding proposals for the lease of the Necarne Estate in Irvinestown to ensure that a long term sustainable use can be established for this beautiful yet underutilised estate that will bring social, economic and environmental benefits to the local community and the district.

"We have considered and responded to various issues raised in relation to the lease of Necarne Estate, consulted with the local community and taken various representations from interested groups and stakeholders to ensure that all matters are taken into consideration.

"The Council is pleased to have reached this stage in the interest of transforming the Estate into one which, through substantial private investment, attracts employment and visitors and preserves and enhances the heritage and natural environment to be enjoyed by locals and visitors."

Councillor Diana Armstrong, who represents the area and is also the Vice Chair of the Council, added: "I believe that investment by Gardrum will bring significant long term benefits to Irvinestown and Erne North. I sought and received assurances that the public access will remain as it is. It is time to embrace a new chapter in the history of Necarne which will bring the Estate alive – this is a good news story for Irvinestown, for Fermanagh and its tourism industry."

(CM/MH)