The inclusion of a stand-alone Tourism Chapter is a welcome addition to the Draft Plan. The overall aim of this chapter, outlining the role of the tourism sector as an economic driver, is welcomed. It is considered that the aim, however, could be strengthened through recognising additional benefits of tourism for County Laois that includes environmental and cultural advantages for instances.
The RSES recognises the important role that tourism plays in County Laois, including as a Growth Enabler for the Gateway Region as identified at Section 3.2 of the RSES, as a means to enable and sustain the rural economy as per Section 4.8 of the RSES, and as a sectoral opportunity for the Midlands as per Section 6.4 of the RSES. It is considered that the content of the Tourism Chapter is reflective of the RSES, including the suite of related policies, namely RPOs 6.8, 6.15-6.18 and 6.21, that seek to enhance the Tourism Sector, and RPO 6.19 that specially deals with tourism development in County Laois.
The inclusion of Map 8.1 as part of the Draft Plan provides an excellent and visually appealing demonstration of the tourist attractions within the County, which is supported by Key Tourism Initiatives listed at Table 8.1 including reference to the Slieve Bloom Mountains, events and festivals, greenways and blueways, rural tourism and the wealth of heritage attractions the County has to offer such as the Rock of Dunamaise, Aghaboe Abbey, Stradbally Hall, Timahoe Round Tower, Abbeyleix Heritage House and others such as Emo Court and Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum. Specific policy objectives relating to Climate Change and Tourism are positive and timely additions to the Draft Plan.