Longford residents urged to participate in public consultation on heritage and biodiversity plan

Waterways Ireland have opens a public consultation on heritage and biodiversity plan. Members of the public are invited to have their say

The Heritage & Biodiversity Plan 2030 will shape the future of Ireland’s waterways.

The Second Waterways Ireland Heritage and Biodiversity Plan aims to prioritise the conservation, protection and promotion of natural, built and cultural heritage along our shared waterways, including safeguarding the ecosystems that are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

It also seeks to support community engagement and education in conservation initiatives to raise awareness about heritage and foster a sense of stewardship and encourage sustainable practices.

The plan will maintain and develop partnerships and collaborations with stakeholders as well as carry out research to support understanding of biodiversity and heritage sites.

The public consultation phase will close on October 4th. Members of the public are invited to review the draft plan and supporting documents and have their say by completing the online survey. Public information and consultation sessions are scheduled to take place beginning with two online webinars followed by four meetings in Athlone, Coleraine, Dublin and Kildare in September. Details will be made available on https://www.waterwaysireland.org/about-us/public-consultations

Dr Paula Treacy, Head of Environment & Heritage Section Waterways Ireland said: “The Waterways Ireland Heritage and Diversity plan 2030 seeks to foster a deeper connection between communities and their local waterways.

“By participating in this consultation, the public can help shape the future of our waterways, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for generations to come. In our promotion of heritage and biodiversity, we strive to enhance the appreciation of our natural landscapes and heritage sites,” Dr Treacy said.

The Waterways Ireland Head of Environment & Heritage Section urged the public to have their say: “Through collaborative efforts with local groups, educational institutions, and conservation organisations, we aim to build a network of engaged citizens dedicated to the appreciation and enjoyment of our waterways.

“This collaborative approach aims to not only enrich the heritage and community-centred foundation of the Plan, but also to contribute to the ecological health and sustainability of our waterways, providing benefits for both people and nature.”

Those interested in more information or making a submission can send a submission to the Waterways Ireland Heritage Officer at heritageplan@waterwaysireland.org or martina.mccarthy@waterwaysireland.org

The closest meeting for Longford people will take place in Athlone im the Northgate Suite, Radisson Blu Hotel, Northgate Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 A8X9 on Monday, September 16, from 3:00pm to 8:00pm.