Work set to begin on construction of new water sports facility in Waterford
Waterford City and County Council has announced that all contracts have been signed for the project
Work is set to begin on the construction of a new water sports facility in County Waterford.
Waterford City and County Council has announced that all contracts have been signed for the construction of the facility on the Prom in Tramore.
The building, which will be located to the immediate east of the existing public toilets, will aim to provide best in class facilities for water sports participants and the local community.
It will include hot and cold showers, a changing toilet, induction space and beach wheelchair storage, along with the upgrade of the existing toilet facilities on the Prom.
It is hoped that the water sports facility will further strengthen Tramore’s appeal as a key tourist destination in the South East.
The project is being undertaken by Conor Phelan Construction and is expected to take 10 months to complete.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Liam Brazil said: “Tramore is renowned for its five kilometres of sandy beaches, clear waters, dunes and cliff walks.
“While it has a wide appeal to the local community and visitors alike, the provision of these facilities is one that will strengthen the appeal of Tramore as an activity hotspot for water sports enthusiasts from the four corners of Ireland throughout the year.”
Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council, also welcomed the contract signing.
He stated: “The delivery of this new centre will bring a multitude of benefits to Tramore and the surrounding areas, as opportunities arise for activity operators and create additional jobs and economic growth in the locality.
“The funding support from Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media is instrumental in copper fastening Waterford’s position as one of the leading destinations for water-based activities.”
Fiona Monaghan, Head of Product and Regional Development at Fáilte Ireland, said, “Tramore is an important coastal destination within Ireland's Ancient East, renowned for its natural beauty, outdoor activities and strong appeal for both domestic and international visitors.
“This exciting new development will further strengthen Tramore's position as a standout activity tourism destination and support the continued growth of the sector across County Waterford.
“This also aligns with Fáilte Ireland's Corporate Strategy, which recognises the opportunity to enhance Ireland's outdoor tourism offering.
“We look forward to working with Waterford City and County Council to deliver a best-in-class water sports activity facility that will further enhance the area's tourism appeal, support local economic activity and help extend the visitor season throughout the year.”
This project is part of Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Scheme, funded under the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 strategy.
The first Fáilte Ireland investment scheme of its kind, it targets platforms or projects that have the greatest potential to grow tourism across Ireland and strategically enhance the Irish tourism offering to meet visitor needs.
This scheme also aligns with Fáilte Ireland’s new Corporate Strategy, which includes the introduction of an Outdoor Ireland programme.
This initiative aims to build on Ireland's strengths in outdoor experiences, creating compelling reasons to travel, encouraging longer stays and increasing visitor spend across destinations throughout the country.