Westport marina a 'must do' project for Mayo

INCLUDING a marina in the masterplan for Roman Island in Westport will unlock funding opportunities to make it a reality.

A two phase approach is being adopted for the project, the first being a marina along the Quay wall/Carrowbeg River. The second phase would see the creation of a larger recreational lagoon.

A presentation was given by the Westport Marina Working Group at the monthly municipal district meeting, where councillors were asked to formally include a marina at Westport Quay in the proposed Roman Island masterplan. This would create opportunities to access funding to progress environmental assessments and design.

They were also asked to agree a high-level project plan with timelines and relevant milestones to measure progress.

Members were told the marina would not just benefit Westport but the county as a whole.

Councillor Peter Flynn pointed out the many positives that have taken place at the location over the past five years and he agreed they now needed to take it to the next phase.

A marina would be the final piece in the jigsaw, said Councillor Brendan Mulroy, with Councillor Johnny O'Malley hailing it 'a great project'.

Westport has stood still since the abolition of the town council, observed Councillor Christy Hyland.

A bit of a resurgence is needed, he said, and this would give the bounce back to the area again.

“It is a must do project,” he stated.

The benefits to the islands, such as Clare Island and Inishturk, and also areas like Achill was commented on by Councillor Paul McNamara, who said a marina is badly needed.