The plan aims to position Wexford as a world-class coastal tourism activity destination that will appeal to both domestic and international visitors
Fáilte Ireland has launched a new five-year plan that will help drive and sustain tourism in Wexford.
The Wexford Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP) aims to create a sustainable tourism destination by extending the tourism season and spreading business across all parts of the region over the next five years.
Key stakeholders in the area were consulted and contributed to the plan including Wexford County Council, Visit Wexford, Local Enterprise Office.
The development of the five-year plan provides a shared vision and clear direction towards improved development, strengthening the promotion of the area’s unique features by growing the destination’s market share through the delivery of Priority Projects and hero experiences that seek to maximise the key strengths of the area.
The plan builds on a number of existing destination development projects designed to bring local experiences to life, including a capital investment programme that will deliver a new Norman-themed attraction in New Ross, along with enhanced visitor experiences at the Irish National Heritage Park and Hook Lighthouse. It also aims to boost Wexford’s appeal to international markets through the implementation of a dedicated five-year International Sales and Marketing Plan. In addition, the DEDP will elevate Wexford’s coastal offering, with the launch of a new Water Sports Facility in Curracloe and the development of coastal villages to help extend the visitor season.
The DEDP envisions the development of Wexford’s towns as vibrant tourism hubs, encouraging longer stays and deeper exploration through strong tourism clusters and industry collaboration.
Additionally, the DEDP supports the growth and networking of tourism businesses across rural County Wexford to better disperse visitors and increase dwell time throughout the destination.
Speaking at the launch, CEO of Fáilte Ireland, Paul Kelly said:
“This five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan sets out a clear vision for Wexford, highlighting transformative projects that will enhance the region’s tourism offering. Building on significant capital investment projects, including a new Norman-themed attraction in New Ross, elevated visitor experiences at the Irish National Heritage Park and Hook Lighthouse, and a new water sports facility in Curracloe, the plan identifies key opportunities to drive sustainable tourism across the county.
By developing vibrant tourism hubs, enhancing the coastal experience, and supporting rural networks, this plan will boost Wexford’s appeal for both domestic and international visitors, extend the tourism season, and deliver widespread economic benefits across the county. Fáilte Ireland remains committed to sustainable tourism development that supports local communities and businesses, creates jobs, and celebrates Wexford’s unique heritage and natural beauty.”
Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council said:
“The Wexford Destination and Experience Development Plan provides a clear strategic roadmap to promote tourism in County Wexford over the next 5 years appealing to both domestic and international markets. The plan encapsulated 3 strategic pillars across coastal experience exploiting Wexford’s exceptional coastline, developing tourism in the axis towns of Wexford, Gorey, New Ross and Enniscorthy to support vibrancy in both the day and night- time economy, developing a range of rural and outdoor experiences incorporating outdoor, food, cultural and heritage experiences.
Wexford County Council are delighted to support the plan, particularly in the development of key catalyst projects such as the National Heritage Park, Hook Head Peninsula, the South East Greenway, Enniscorthy Regeneration project, Forth Mountain and Gorey Market House which will maximise opportunities for increased visitors and create key jobs in the local economy.”
Wexford DEDP Co-Chairs, Colm Neville (Neville Park Hotels) and Paul Halpenny (Irish Heritage Trust) said:
”We are delighted to take on this new and exciting opportunity as co-chairs of the Wexford DEDP Implementation group. Our aim is to work together with the tourism industry partners in Wexford alongside Fáilte Ireland, Wexford County Council and Visit Wexford to guide and drive Wexford as a destination for both domestic and international visitors. We want to ensure that Wexford is maximising its potential in the tourism space and look forward to working together to achieve the strategic objectives set out in the Wexford DEDP”
The Wexford Destination and Experience Development Plan has been developed through a collaborative approach and will be dependent on local tourism businesses, stakeholders and local communities working with Fáilte Ireland to implement this plan over next five years. Read the full Wexford Destination and Experience Development Plan here.
