A masterplan for the site was commissioned in 2021.
A government Junior Minister wants to see plans for the future of Clonmacnoise become "something very special."
A masterplan was commissioned by the Office of Public Works in 2021 to enhance the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site.
Green Party Senator Pippa Hackett says she's contacted Junior Minister Patrick O'Donovan to ensure the future of the site benefits the the wider community.
She says people must be encouraged to get out of their cars and onto the local greenways and trails.
Minister Hackett says she wants to see people extend their stay:
She says:
"We must do all we can so that visitors to Clonmacnoise are tempted to extend their stay and enjoy more of what West Offaly has to offer. We must encourage them out of their cars and coaches and onto our trails and greenways and into our local businesses. They won’t be disappointed.
A masterplan for the enhancement of Clonmacnoise is being prepared and I believe it presents a once in a generation opportunity for collaboration across agencies and community to create something very special: A heritage experience which is truly inclusive of local communities, is climate proofed, and brings economic uplift and the potential for spin offs to the wider region.
It is essential that the plans for the future of the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site take account of opportunities including the recent Failte Ireland Tourism Plan and trail development, significant Government investment in active travel, greenway development, rural public transport, outdoor recreation infrastructure and the ‘Our Rural Future’ policy of Government. It must also take into account the local communities’ wishes and plans”.
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