Mayo councillor hits out at neglect at iconic Aasleagh Falls

THE iconic Aasleagh Falls are being neglected by Mayo County Council and Fáilte Ireland, a local public representative has hit out.

They have been taken to task by Councillor Chris Maxwell who says rotting fencing at the car park needs to be replaced, in addition to a general tidy up.

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most important tourist runs in the country but he was 'disappointed' one of its most scenic spots has been neglected.

Councillor Maxwell said he had been told the works outlined above would be done this summer but nothing had happened.

It was then suggested that the community should seek Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) funding, but that was impossible as there is no community group as most are on the Galway side, and there is no match funding available.

Councillor Maxwell called on Fáilte Ireland in particular to help out. They were investing €35 million in Westport, which is welcome, but there are other small areas crying out for little things to be done, he said. Upgrading them would make a major difference.

Aasleagh Falls is iconic, with the famous scene from The Field filmed there, and it woudn't take much to do it up, he said.

Councillor Maxwell highlighted the significance of the route with Aasleagh Falls, the Doolough famine tragedy, Sheeffrey Pass, Delphi adventure centre and hotel, and on to Louisburgh and the islands, and it needs investment.

“If the municipal district cannot come up with the money, put pressure on Fáilte Ireland to get that little project done and not have it in a terrible state of disrepair, and have it ready for next year,” he said.

* Funded under the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme