Minister briefed on €21m. Westport marina proposal

Marine Minister Charlie McConalogue has been briefed on proposals to develop a marina in Westport at a cost of €21 million.

He met with members of Westport Tourism Organisation during a visit to the town.

In a presentation Fr. Micheál MacGreil referenced a survey that revealed ‘Westport’s most valuable assets are not utilised’ and that ‘Clew Bay has massive potential with the proper planning to develop it'.

He spoke of how Clew Bay was at one time the most active port in Connaught and noted that there are several important things going on in Clew Bay - but the thing that has the most potential is the proposed Marina.

“Location in proximity to Westport House is ideal for it and it won’t require any major changes to the environment.”

Marine consultant Alex Blackwell said there is a lack of marine infrastructure in the west, bar plans to build one in Galway and a tiny one in Killybegs, thus 'leaving a big hole in the middle'.

There’s a need to plug that hole to connect to other regions like Sweden, Scotland and France.

Mr. Blackwell said such a facility would provide additional advantages for the coastguard services.

Simon Wall, engineer, Westport Municipal District, said Mayo County Council is supportive of the project and funding is now required. It is estimated it could cost in the region of €21 million.

Minister McConalogue said the development of marina is something his department is seriously considering, especially coming out of Brexit.

He said there is a big gap in funding for marine tourism and that he congratulated Westport on their plans.