Work continues on visitor management plan at popular Mayo beach

A VISITOR management plan is being formulated for Keem Bay in Achill.

Traffic gridlock and wild camping have become issues at the site, which has seen its popularity soar in recent years.

Consultation has taken place with local residents and agencies and it's hoped to have a plan ready to present to the next meeting of Mayo County Council's tourism policy committee, says tourism officer Anna Connor.

Councillor Paul McNamara said there are a range of issues that need to be dealt with before the opening of the tourism season – traffic management, overnight parking, which causes congestion, and wild camping.

The Achill-based representative said he didn't think it was appropriate to be putting up the 'Closed' sign for Keem at 12 on a summer's day. It sends out the 'wrong vibe' for people, many of whom have travelled, to see this.

“We should try and manage it better,” he stated.