Five Year Plan for West Cork

Fáilte Ireland has launched a new five-year plan that will help drive and sustain tourism in West Cork and Kenmare. 

The West Cork and Kenmare Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years. 

Key stakeholders in the area were consulted and contributed to the plan, including Cork County Council, Kerry County Council, Pure Cork, local development companies and local tourism marketing groups, tourism operators and local community groups.

The plan builds on a number of existing destination development projects that will bring local experiences to life, including improved facilities for walking, hiking and water activities; the implementation of the Beara Breifne Way Masterplan; and the Kinsale Start/End of the Wild Atlantic Way. The Food in Tourism Action Plan aims to position West Cork and Kenmare as a premier national and international artisan food and drink destination. The DEDP also features plans to develop an integrated transport system and all-weather experiences to help extend the length of the tourism season.

Director of Regional Development at Fáilte Ireland Paul Keeley said:

“This five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan captures the unique themes that are central to West Cork and Kenmare and features key priority projects which will transform the tourism offering across the region.”