Major €12.5m
investment for Fort Dunree
11.06.21
THE Minister for Tourism,
Catherine Martin and Fáilte Ireland yesterday announced
a total investment of €12.5 million to develop a new
world-class tourist attraction at Fort Dunree
in Buncrana.
Over the first 5 years of operation this project will
generate €19.5m in direct tourism expenditure supporting
550 jobs in the area and 12 new jobs will be created at
the attraction. |
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The new attraction proposes a compelling visitor experience that will
showcase the considerable maritime, military, social and
political history, telling engaging stories across each
of these facets. Fort Dunree has a distinctive mix of
physical assets – the High Fort with watchtowers
providing a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view and
perspective of this part of Inishowen; one of the best
collections of coastal guns in the world; military
memorabilia, artefacts and a lighthouse. |
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The proposed funicular
(which will be the only one in Ireland) will offer
visitors a 'thrilling ascent' to the High Fort, whilst
its descent will provide breath-taking views of Lough
Swilly and its surroundings. A further key value
proposition is the development of the glass walkway,
bridging two elements of the site and providing
spectacular views of the natural environment. |
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Liam Ward, Director of
Community Development & Planning Services, Donegal
County Council said: “The development of Fort Dunree and
Head using this Fáilte Ireland funding will be
transformational for the tourism offering in Donegal and
the surrounding areas. We look forward to commencing the
project, which will encourage more visitors, domestic
and international, to explore and spend time in this
uniquely beautiful part of Ireland. This exciting
project has been developed in partnership with the Fort
Dunree Military Museum Group, Commission of Irish Lights
and other stakeholders and we acknowledge their
contribution to this positive development today.” |
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