Kinnitty Plan 'A Prospectus for Development' Launched

 Kinnitty Plan 'A Prospectus for Development' Launched

 Fri, 25th Oct, 2019

The official launch of the Kinnitty a Prospectus for Development took place in Kinnitty Community Centre on 23rd October.

Following a competitive tendering process Louise Browne Associates was commissioned by Offaly Local Development Company to undertake the work, this was funded through the LEADER Programme.

Brendan O’ Loughlin CEO of Offaly Local Development Company, introducing the night outlined that “Offaly Local Development Company has a long history in supporting communities in Offaly and the importance of community planning in this regard”.

“The development of the plan relied greatly on the input from a wide range of contributors from the community, Coillte, Offaly County Council and Failte Ireland. The plan is about realising the tourism potential of Kinnitty’s location as an important gateway to the Slieve Bloom Mountains”.    

Louise Browne set out the potential and identified the long-term objectives for Kinnitty. The plan has identified a number of key actions which were identified through the consultation process.

The objective is to welcome visitors, in particular walkers, cyclists and mountain bikers of all ages, to the village and from there encourage them to explore the surrounding countryside, enjoy the new bike trails and spend time in the area. The ambition is to grow day-trip and overnight stays thereby supporting the growth of tourism and cycling-related businesses.

John Carroll, Chairperson of Kinnitty Community Development Association welcomed the Kinnitty a Prospectus for Development plan. John Carroll thanked Louise Browne and Offaly Local Development Company for the support to date and looks forward to working on future projects identified within the plan.   

Encouraging the wider community to get involved with the group, John outlined “There is much work to be done to create a hub destination in Kinnitty, and the community is anxious to play its part in realising its plan”. “The long term objective is for Kinnitty to be a cycling hub  - a gateway to the Slieve Blooms with proposed visitors facilities- information, parking, food and drink, accommodation etc within the village for not only bikers but also for walkers, hikers and casual ramblers exploring the Slieve Bloom.”

Brendan O’ Loughlin, Offaly Local Development Company said “there is both community and enterprise opportunities in Kinnitty and Offaly Local Development Company is available to offer supports”. 

The Kinnitty Plan 'A Prospectus for Development' can be downloaded below.