SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has welcomed support from the Economy Minister for his proposal to extend the Wild Atlantic Way into Derry after a report by Failte Ireland assessing the economic impact of the brand which found that it generates more than €3 billion per year in tourism revenue for communities along the west coast of Ireland.
Mr Eastwood wrote to the Economy Minister earlier this month to request an assessment of the potential benefit of extending the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal through Derry and onto the Causeway Coast following the allocation of £6.5m from the Shared Island Unity to link the two brands at the end of 2022.
Said the Foyle MP: “The brand power of the Wild Atlantic Way has been an extraordinary asset for communities along the west coast that are now benefitting to the tune of more than €3 billion every year in tourism revenue.
“Outdoor activities, food tours, pubs, restaurants, cafes and the whole gambit of hospitality and tourism businesses are seeing a measurable increase in trade.
“There is a huge opportunity to extend and expand the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal through to the centre of Derry and on to the Causeway Coast.
“More than £6m has already been provided by the Shared Island Unit to link the two brands but my firm view is that deeper integration will deliver better outcomes for businesses and communities in the North West.
“I wrote to the Economy Minister this month asking for an assessment of the economic potential of extending the Wild Atlantic Way to Derry and the North West.
“It makes no sense as far as I can see to terminate such a successful brand at the border when we can maximise the benefit for everyone. We should be seeking to compliment the tourist product in the North West instead of needlessly competing with ourselves.
“There is so much more potential for Derry if we work smart and work together to make our city a bridge for investment across the North West region.
“Investing in one of the most successful tourism brands on the island is a good place to start.”
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