500 signatures reached
To: Kerry Co. Co.
The Bridge Field, Castlegregory must be saved
It is in the best interests of the community and the surrounding nature area to keep this facility open and to prevent 'Wild Camping' and help and bolster tourism and tourist spend in less frequented areas.
Why is this important?
There is a concerning oversight in the planning approach of Kerry County Council regarding Campervan/Motorhome 'Aire' type services. These services, named after the 'Aires de Service' in France, offer essential amenities for Campervan / Motorhome users and are prevalent across continental EU countries.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a notable surge in 'Staycationers,' accompanied by a corresponding increase in Campervan / Motorhome sales. These vehicles afford individuals the comfort of their own secure space, fostering a preference for domestic travel among many.
This presents a unique opportunity to augment 'bed nights' in regions beyond the primary tourist centres, offering significant economic advantages to these areas. By providing adequate facilities for Campervan/Motorhome users, Kerry County Council can tap into this burgeoning market and bolster tourism in less frequented areas.
During stays at the Bridge Field, we've encountered visitors from various countries, including the UK, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands, as well as fellow Irish tourists. Their patronage has notably boosted the local economy, benefiting village shops, pubs, restaurants, and even the weekly farmer's market. These visits aren't confined to the summer months but extend throughout the year, owing to the convenience their vehicles afford them.
Moreover, the spaciousness of motorhomes encourages tourists to invest in larger purchases, fostering new opportunities for rural craft enterprises across Ireland.
The Bridge Field motorhome park provides a warm and inviting hub for exploration in Kerry. However, the absence of such a facility may now lead to a noticeable influx of camper vans into the village, only to depart shortly after due to the lack of secure parking - a circumstance that would be particularly regrettable for the community in the upcoming seasons.
At present, the sole Aire-type service available in Kerry County is the thriving motorhome park located at Goosey Island in Sneem. This serves as a prime example of how such facilities can significantly contribute to the prosperity of a local community.
It begs the question: is there a bias against Campervans/Motorhomes within the Kerry Co. Co. Planning department, or perhaps a misguided association of this lifestyle with a particular demographic?
Consider this: would you prefer 'Staycationers' to support rural areas in Ireland by spending their money locally, or would you rather see them opt for ferries to destinations like France, Germany, or Spain, where they are warmly welcomed and their tourism euros are eagerly received?
It begs the question: is there a bias against Campervans/Motorhomes within the Kerry Co. Co. Planning department, or perhaps a misguided association of this lifestyle with a particular demographic?
Consider this: would you prefer 'Staycationers' to support rural areas in Ireland by spending their money locally, or would you rather see them opt for ferries to destinations like France, Germany, or Spain, where they are warmly welcomed and their tourism euros are eagerly received?