Outdoor recreational plan launched in Waterford
Pictured at the launch of the Waterford Outdoor Recreation Plan at the Anne Valley Walk in Dunhill.
Waterford City & County Council has launched it's first plan Outdoor Recreation Plan.
The 'Waterford Outdoor Recreation Plan 2026–2030', was launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, accompanied by Minister of State John Cummins TD, with elected members.
Representatives from local and national agencies, outdoor recreation clubs and partner organisations were also among those in attendance at the launch, which took place at the Anne Valley Walk in Dunhill on Friday, June 12.
It's the local authority's first dedicated outdoor recreation plan, providing a coordinated framework for the sustainable development, management and promotion of outdoor recreation throughout Waterford.
Developed through a collaborative partnership approach led by the Waterford Outdoor Recreation Committee (WORC), the five-year plan sets out a framework to increase participation in outdoor recreation, improve access and infrastructure, support inclusive opportunities and protect Waterford's natural environment.
Outdoor recreation activities covered by the plan include walking, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, paddle sports, swimming, angling and a range of nature-based activities that take place throughout Waterford's diverse landscapes and waterways.
From the Waterford Greenway and Copper Coast to the Comeragh Mountains, Blackwater Valley, beaches, and forests, the county offers exceptional opportunities for people to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Inclusivity is a central principle of the plan, which recognises that outdoor recreation should be accessible to everyone regardless of age, ability or background.
A spokesperson for the local authority said that by improving infrastructure, strengthening partnerships and reducing barriers to participation, the plan aims to create more opportunities for people to enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits that come from spending time outdoors.
It was developed following extensive consultation with community groups, outdoor recreation clubs, landowners, statutory agencies and the public through stakeholder workshops, engagement events and an online survey.
The WORC, which developed the plan, is a multi-agency partnership established to provide strategic leadership for outdoor recreation across the county.
The committee includes representatives from the local authority, Waterford Sports Partnership, Waterford Leader Partnership, Fáilte Ireland, Coillte, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Swim Ireland and Get Ireland Walking.
As part of the national outdoor recreation strategy, 'Embracing Ireland's Outdoors 2023–2027', Waterford was selected as one of just six counties nationally to participate in Sport Ireland's Outdoor Recreation Officer pilot programme.
The role, currently held by David Abbott in Waterford Sports Partnership, has been central to coordinating the development of the plan and supporting the work of the Waterford Outdoor Recreation Committee.
Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Seamus Ryan, said: “Waterford is fortunate to have some of Ireland's most spectacular natural amenities, from our coastline and beaches to our mountains, rivers, forests and the world-class Waterford Greenway. Outdoor recreation plays a vital role in supporting healthy communities, enhancing quality of life and connecting people with nature."
Cllr Ryan said that as a first plan of its kind, the document "provides a clear roadmap for the next five years".
He said it will ensure that Waterford continues to develop and manage its valuable resources in a sustainable and inclusive way.
"Through continued collaboration, we can ensure that outdoor recreation delivers lasting benefits for our communities, our environment and our local economy," said Cllr Ryan.
Ned Brennan, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council and Chair of the Waterford County Outdoor Recreation Committee, also commented at the launch.
"This plan reflects the strength of partnership working across Waterford," he said.
"It has brought together local authorities, state agencies, sporting organisations, tourism bodies, community groups and landowners around a shared vision for outdoor recreation in the county," he added.
He went on to comment that the consultation process demonstrated the value that people place on outdoor recreation and the importance of balancing increased participation and access with the protection of our natural environment.
"A key priority over the coming months will be the establishment of a Waterford Outdoor Recreation Stakeholder Forum," he said.
"The forum will provide an opportunity for local communities, clubs, landowners and outdoor enthusiasts to contribute to the implementation of the plan and help shape the future development of outdoor recreation throughout Waterford.”
Also speaking at the launch was Rosarie Kealy, CEO of Waterford Sports Partnership, who said: “Outdoor recreation provides enormous benefits for physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection. This plan will help ensure that more people of all ages and abilities have opportunities to access and enjoy the outdoors."
“Through Sport Ireland's Outdoor Recreation Officer pilot programme, Waterford has developed strong partnerships and a coordinated approach to outdoor recreation development," she said.
"Waterford Sports Partnership looks forward to continuing this work with communities, clubs and partner organisations as we implement the plan and encourage greater participation in outdoor recreation across the county.”
Funding for the development of the plan was provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, while the Outdoor Recreation Officer programme is managed by Sport Ireland.
To view the Waterford Outdoor Recreation Plan 2026–2030 visit Waterford Outdoor Recreation Plan 2026-2030
