Water Sports Hub for Leitrim

Minister Catherine Martin turned the sod on the new €1.2 million Water Sports Facility at Acres Lake, Drumshanbo, County Leitrim. Developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Leitrim County Council, this best-in-class outdoor tourism amenity aims to enhance the visitor experience and serve as a central hub for outdoor activities in Leitrim. 

The new Water Sports Facility at Acres Lake will help extend the outdoor tourism season by providing year-round hot showers, changing rooms, toilets, secure storage, induction spaces and equipment washdown areas. Accessibility and sustainability will be key focus points for the project, ensuring full wheelchair access and the installation of solar heating panels to comply with “Nearly Zero Energy Building Standards”. It will also feature Leitrim’s first “Changing Places” facility along with an accessible toilet.  

Breaking ground to mark the beginning of construction on the new tourism development, Minister Martin said:

“Funded under the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 strategy, Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth scheme is already making strides in transforming the region's outdoor tourism infrastructure. It is a prime example of our dedication to creating outdoor amenities for the local community, while also motivating both domestic and international visitors to explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of Leitrim.”

Head of Activities at Fáilte Ireland Fiona Monaghan said: 

“Fáilte Ireland is committed to the sustainable development of tourism and enhancing the visitor experience, particularly in regional areas. Today marks the beginning of the journey in developing a fantastic new tourism amenity that will help strengthen the outdoor tourism offering in Co. Leitrim.”