The study will focus on identifying existing facilities and determining future market demand for marina/berthing/moorings or other relevant tourism developments around the lake.
The upcoming series of public consultations will take place in Shannon Oaks Hotel, Portumna (2-8pm, Tuesday Jan 29th); Lakeside Hotel, Ballina, County Tipperary (2-8pm, Wednesday Jan 30th); and Kincora Hall Hotel, Killaloe, County Clare (2-8pm, Thursday Jan 31st).
"It is important that anyone with an interest in the future development of Lough Derg and its shoreline attend the upcoming public meetings." stated John Bradley, Senior Executive Planner, Clare County Council.
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He added: "Lough Derg is one of Ireland's most valued tourism assets but it is also a vulnerable landscape, which is why it is imperative that it is the subject of an extensive development strategy. The study partners, in conjunction with the local community and interested parties, must ensure that an appropriate balance is established, with development in the most appropriate locations and the protection of vulnerable areas."
A Vulnerable Landscape Survey will feature as part of the strategy formulation process. The aim of the habitat survey of lands in the Clare and Galway County areas of Lough Derg is to determine the presence of features of archaeological, geological or cultural interest, habitats and species.
Among the sources of information referenced during the course of the survey will be the Clare Landscape Character Assessment, data from the Shannon River Basin District, Local Biodiversity Area reports and EIS reports.
Meanwhile, a survey of marina and related water facilities at Lough Derg will also take place. The survey will take into account private individual moorings, public berthings, private group berthings and floating buoys around the lake.
Presently there are 12 public harbours located on Lough Derg at Killaloe, Mountshannon, Williamstown, Scariff, Tuamgraney (Clare), Garrykennedy, Ballina, Dromineer, Kilgarven, Terryglass (Tipperary), Rosmore and Portumna (Galway). There are eight private harbours located at Killaloe, Mountshannon, Williamstown (Clare), Cloondavaun Harbour (Galway), Ballina, Dromineer, Coolbawn and Terryglass (Tipperary).
"All the indications are that demand for moorings will continue to increase on and around Lough Derg." added Mr.Bradley.
It is anticipated that the study will be completed within three months.
(GK)
