Mayo councillor calls for expansion of beach facilities around the county

A WESTPORT councillor has called on Mayo County Council to make a list of Blue Flag beaches which should be prioritised for upgraded facilities.

Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn made the comment at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council after councillors welcomed the turning of the sod on the all weather facilities at Keel beach in Achill and Carrowmore beach near Louisburgh.

Minister of State for Small Business and Retail & Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, along with Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Seán Carey turned the sod on the new €1.2million water sport facilities which will be developed by Mayo County Council in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.

Achill councillor Paul McNamara was the first to welcome the new development at the monthly meeting where he also called for a contractor to be appointed quickly in order for them both to be ready for the start of the 2026 summer season.

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Cathaoirleach of the Westport/Belmullet Municipal District, Cllr Peter Flynn said the turning of the sod on the two facilities was welcome news and also stressed it was important they were up and running for next June.

However, he added that there are eleven Blue Flag beaches in Mayo and it was important that Mayo County Council and Fáilte Ireland look to prioritise the next beaches to receive funding for similar facilities.

“We need to start thinking about where the next two Blue Flag beaches will have to have similar facilities developed. Obviously Keem is at the top of any beach to visit in the world but you have the likes of Old Head and Bertra which will have to be part of any discussion going forward and I would ask for them to be prioritised.

“We need to get a list together that Failte Ireland will continue this investment in beaches. We are very lucky to have eleven Blue Flags right now and we need to continue to have facilities,” he said.

Belmullet-based councillor Seán Carey echoed the sentiments and suggested that the two Blue Flag beaches in Erris – Elly Bay and Mullaghroe – be looked at.

The two all-weather facilities in Keel and Carrowmore will provide year-round hot showers, changing area, toilets, secure storage, and induction space at both beaches. They will also be fully accessible with full wheelchair access and solar heating panels will also be installed.