County Leitrim, known for its serene lakelands, waterways, and position in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, sees a focus on sustainable tourism, outdoor recreation upgrades, and strategic planning in 2026. Several funded enhancements to existing amenities and the rollout of a regional development plan will improve visitor experiences, particularly around blueways, trails, and community facilities.
- Implementation of the Upper Shannon, Shannon-Erne, and Border Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP): Launched by Fáilte Ireland in early 2025, this five-year plan advances significantly in 2026 with initiatives to extend the tourism season, enhance visitor dispersal, and develop regenerative experiences across Leitrim, Cavan, and northern Roscommon. Key actions include promoting assets like the Shannon Blueway, Beara Breifne Way, and Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark, alongside new interpretive storytelling and community-led activities to enrich immersion in the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) Upgrades: Funded projects allocated in 2025 complete enhancements in 2026 at multiple sites, including new service blocks, trail resurfacing, repairs, and accessibility improvements at locations such as Acres Lake (with its floating boardwalk). These upgrades support better facilities for walking, cycling, and water-based activities, making Leitrim’s scenic amenities more welcoming for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Coast-to-Coast Capital Investment Scheme for Interpretation Enhancements: As part of the Shared Island Tourism Brand Collaboration Project, funding applications and potential upgrades in 2026 target existing attractions in parts of Leitrim along the Wild Atlantic Way. This focuses on improved immersive storytelling and facilities, complementing cross-border links with the Causeway Coastal Route.
- Potential Community and Tourism Hub in Leitrim Village: Following a planning application submitted in late 2025, if approved and progressing, 2026 could see advancement or opening of this new hub featuring a tourism information office, public amenities, meeting spaces, kitchen, short-stay accommodation, and EV charging points. It aims to serve as a central base for visitors exploring the Shannon-Erne Waterway and surrounding villages.
- Lough MacNean Forest Recreation Project (Phase One Completion): Construction underway in 2025 targets completion in 2026 for initial facilities, including a new car park, trailhead building with accessible toilets, playground, and sensory play area on Coillte lands near Lough MacNean. This enhances family-friendly outdoor access in north Leitrim, with future phases planned.
- Town and Village Renewal Scheme Projects: Allocations announced in late 2025 fund rejuvenation works progressing into 2026 across Leitrim towns, including pedestrian improvements, outdoor spaces, and tourism-boosting features to combat vacancy and increase footfall in areas like Carrick-on-Shannon and Manorhamilton.
These initiatives emphasise Leitrim’s strengths in slow, nature-based tourism while building connectivity to nearby developments like the Shannon Pot Discovery Centre (in adjacent Cavan, opening early 2026). For the most current details, consult official sources such as Leitrim Tourism, Fáilte Ireland, or Discover Ireland, as project timelines and additional funding calls may evolve.
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