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05/10/2009
'Signature' Highlights National Park Bid
Initiatives to improve the tourist experience in the Mournes are continuing, regardless of a controversial proposal for its designation as a National Park, writes Carla Liebana.
The NI Tourism Minister, Arlene Foster has launched the Mournes Signature Project Action Plan, which outlines ongoing work in the zone - already identified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, pictured here by Brian McCalden.
"This project aims to enhance the visitor experience in the Mournes area, a region renowned for its magnificent mountains, countryside and coast," said the Minister.
These improvements include Mournes coastal driving and walking routes, the development of local forest parks, off-road mountain biking trails, outdoor adventure facilities and a public art programme.
Expressing here satisfaction with the work that has been carried out in the region, Arlen Foster said that it was "encouraging" to see the progress being made on the Mournes Signature Project, which is detailed in the action plan.
Produced by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), the development of this and other similar projects in the area has £4m available as financial assistance.
Stephen Bill, NITB Manager of the Mournes Signature Project, stated: "The action plan will be issued by the NITB to local tourism businesses and key stakeholders in order to keep them abreast of proposed work in the area".
"We have also used the publication to incorporate some unique stories about the area, for example, scientists have suggested that the Mourne Mountains are probably the source for much of Ireland's prehistoric gold.
"This information helps us communicate just how unique the area is, encouraging everyone to realise its tourism potential," he concluded.
Some months ago, when he was Stormont Environment Minister, the MLA Sammy Wilson looked at Northern Ireland having its first National Park - in the Mourne Mountains or in another location.
But a final decision has yet to be taken by the Stormont Executive, in which Mr Wilson is now Finance Minister.
While there are already 14 National Parks in Britain, the establishment of another in the Mournes is a divisive issue with farmers voicing fears about extra restrictions on them and on fears over pushing up property prices.
However, it has also been said that it could create commercial opportunities, especially on the tourism front.
(CL/BMcC)
The NI Tourism Minister, Arlene Foster has launched the Mournes Signature Project Action Plan, which outlines ongoing work in the zone - already identified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, pictured here by Brian McCalden.
"This project aims to enhance the visitor experience in the Mournes area, a region renowned for its magnificent mountains, countryside and coast," said the Minister.
These improvements include Mournes coastal driving and walking routes, the development of local forest parks, off-road mountain biking trails, outdoor adventure facilities and a public art programme.
Expressing here satisfaction with the work that has been carried out in the region, Arlen Foster said that it was "encouraging" to see the progress being made on the Mournes Signature Project, which is detailed in the action plan.
Produced by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), the development of this and other similar projects in the area has £4m available as financial assistance.
Stephen Bill, NITB Manager of the Mournes Signature Project, stated: "The action plan will be issued by the NITB to local tourism businesses and key stakeholders in order to keep them abreast of proposed work in the area".
"We have also used the publication to incorporate some unique stories about the area, for example, scientists have suggested that the Mourne Mountains are probably the source for much of Ireland's prehistoric gold.
"This information helps us communicate just how unique the area is, encouraging everyone to realise its tourism potential," he concluded.
Some months ago, when he was Stormont Environment Minister, the MLA Sammy Wilson looked at Northern Ireland having its first National Park - in the Mourne Mountains or in another location.
But a final decision has yet to be taken by the Stormont Executive, in which Mr Wilson is now Finance Minister.
While there are already 14 National Parks in Britain, the establishment of another in the Mournes is a divisive issue with farmers voicing fears about extra restrictions on them and on fears over pushing up property prices.
However, it has also been said that it could create commercial opportunities, especially on the tourism front.
(CL/BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
