Wicklow Local Development Strategy
Wicklow Local Development Strategy (LDS)
In October / November 2015, public consultation meetings were held in five locations across the County to get feedback on local requirements and potential actions under each of the themes and sub-themes outlined above. Meetings were also held with relevant agencies and stakeholders in each sector. The information gathered from these meetings was used to devise a Local Development Strategy (LDS) for Wicklow.
The following is a summary of the actions which were identified as priority strategic actions in the Wicklow Local Development Strategy (LDS):
Rural Tourism |
| 1.1 To support the growth of the tourism sector in Wicklow by improving and expanding the quality and range of tourism products on offer1.2 Build the capacity of Wicklow’s tourism communities and tourism providers to be prepared to take advantage of Fáilte Irelands IAE (Irelands Ancient East) brand and expand market share
1.3 To animate and develop the heritage potential of South Wicklow’s Fitzwilliam Coolattin Estate as a co-operative approach to destination development and an economic driver for the villages of Shillelagh, Coolboy, Carnew & Tinahely 1.4 To animate and develop the unique and traditional village settlements of West Wicklow as a driver of heritage tourism through a co-operative approach aimed at destination development as a mechanism if stimulating economic activity in the area 1.5 Assist Wicklow’s tourism providers and rural communities to benefit from social media as an effective marketing tool to attract visitors |
Enterprise Development |
| 2.1 Support and expand LEADER-type micro / SME and social enterprises in Wicklow providing capital, marketing, and Analysis and Development support where needed as a stimulus to creating an entrepreneurial environment linked to job creation and service provision in the County2.2 Support and facilitate the development of social entrepreneurs and social enterprises and social entrepreneurs in Wicklow as key contributors to local employment creation and the provision of much needed services and products
2.3 Strengthen the capacity of start-up and existing LEADER type businesses in Wicklow |
Rural Towns |
| 3.1 Deliver a community buildings and social capital regeneration programme in specific towns in Wicklow to improve the social aspects of these areas3.2 Facilitate community planning through the development of four integrated town plans enhancement / renewal plans
3.3 Wicklow’s town enhancement / renewal / capital programme |
Basic Services for Hard to Reach Communities |
| 4.1 Targeted animation / capacity building and capital programme to support “hard-to-reach” communities in rural villages / areas as an initiative to improve balanced regional development across the county4.2 Support facilities / hubs / projects that enable engagement / participation among individuals experiencing social and geographic exclusion |
Rural Youth |
| 5.1 Provision of bespoke, flexible and creative pathways to learning for young people enabling them to progress both socially and economically in line with their own specific needs and interests and to reach their full potential5.2 Develop and deliver a youth re-engagement programme in West Wicklow
5.3 Support provision of social infrastructure for young people in specific areas where the need is greatest |
Protection and Sustainable Use of Water Resources |
| 6.1 Support communities and individuals to investigate and develop solutions and contribute to the conservation of our valuable local water resources |
Protection of Local Biodiversity |
| 7.1 Improve local biodiversity awareness and protection among communities in Wicklow7.2 Improve recreational access to areas of high nature value, ensuring protection of local biodiversity |
Development of Renewable Energy |
| 8.1 Strengthen the development and quality of Wicklow’s renewable energy businesses |
This local development strategy has been approved and endorsed by the LEADER partners (Wicklow LCDC, CWP and Wicklow County Council) and has also been approved by the Department.
The LDS may be changed with approval of the LEADER partners in Wicklow and the Department.
Projects that fall under these strategic actions will be prioritised for funding under the programme.
Please see a full text of the strategy below.
Wicklow Local Development Strategy
LEADER / Rural Development Programme