Kerry County Council to Pilot Campervan Facility Amidst Tourism Demand
Kerry County Council has announced plans to launch a pilot campervan and motorhome facility in County Kerry, Ireland, this year. The initiative aims to address a growing need for dedicated facilities to support the increasing number of tourists traveling by campervan and motorhome, while also ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
Addressing a Long-Standing Issue
The lack of designated campervan facilities in Kerry has been a recurring concern raised by elected representatives over the past several years. The council is now responding with a concrete plan to provide a dedicated space for these visitors.
Framework for Sustainable Campervan Tourism
Kerry County Council is finalizing a draft framework for campervan and motorhome tourism. This framework will outline clear, consistent, and sustainable guidelines for the operation of such facilities and the management of campervan tourism in the county. The draft is scheduled to be presented to the council’s Economic Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) this month for review and feedback. Kerry County Council states the framework is designed to support tourism, safeguard local communities, and protect the natural environment.
Location Still Under Consideration
While the council has committed to delivering a pilot facility this year, the specific location remains undecided. The final location will be determined after the Economic SPC members have had an opportunity to consider and comment on the draft framework later this month.
Ballybunion Proposed as Ideal Location
Fine Gael councillor Aoife Kennelly has suggested Ballybunion as an ideal location for the pilot facility. Speaking at a recent Listowel Municipal District meeting, Kennelly argued that Ballybunion already possesses the necessary infrastructure to cater to tourists. She also believes locating the facility there would help mitigate issues with illegal parking in the area.
Listowel Municipal District Support
The issue was initially raised at a meeting of the Listowel Municipal District, demonstrating local support for addressing the need for campervan facilities. Jimmy Moloney is the current Cathaoirleach (chairperson) of the Listowel Municipal District, while Frank Hartnett serves as the Municipal District Manager. Listowel Municipal Area Office is located at Arás an Phiarsaigh, Charles Street, Listowel, V31 X470.
Kerry County Council Overview
As the local authority for County Kerry, Kerry County Council is responsible for a range of services including housing and community support, roads and transportation, urban planning, amenity and culture, and environmental protection. The council is comprised of 33 elected members, with the current Cathaoirleach being Michael Foley (Fine Gael) and the Chief Executive being Fearghal Reidy. Elections are held every five years using a single transferable vote system.