County Galway gets its first Outdoor Recreation Plan

Galway County Council has adopted the county’s first Outdoor Recreation Plan.

The document covering 2027-2031, aims to improve access to outdoor activities, identify gaps in facilities and strengthen cooperation between public bodies, landowners and community groups.

It covers a wide range of activities, including walking, cycling, swimming and water-based recreation.

The plan also seeks to ensure that increased use of outdoor amenities does not come at the expense of the natural environment, biodiversity or cultural heritage.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council Cllr Andrew Reddington noted that the plan recognised the value of outdoor recreation to people’s health and to local communities.

“Galway has an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from Connemara to east Galway. This plan is about making the most of those assets while ensuring they are protected for future generations,” he said.

The plan was adopted by councillors at their recent plenary meeting and is due to be officially launched early next year.