Funding sanctioned for extension to ballycroy national park

A SUM of €220,000 has been sanctioned to purchase lands at Srahduggan to facilitate public access to Ballycroy National Park in Erris, Co. Mayo.

The Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring, said today (Friday) he has received confirmation from the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys, that the funding has been sanctioned.

Minister Ring added: “The purchase of this land will considerably improve the access to Ballycroy National Park. This land will facilitate and safeguard public access to the park, where an enhanced trails development programme is planned.

“The acquisition will provide dedicated unhindered public access, allow for the development of recreational and educational facilities to enhance the visitor experience and, by extension, improve visitor awareness and appreciation of natural and cultural heritage in the west of Ireland, all of which are desirable in view of Fáilte Ireland’s commitment to promote the national park as a signature experience on the Wild Atlantic Way.”

Minister Ring said he was delighted to see Ballycroy National Park being developed and extended in this manner.

“It will provide a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience this fantastic facility,” he concluded.