Galty Mountains Tourism Development Facilitation & Project Management

Transcription

1 Galty Mountains Tourism Development Facilitation & Project Management Ballyhoura Development July 2010 SLR Ref: 501.Q10210

2 CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION Introduction to SLR GALTY MOUNTAINS TOURISM DEVELOMENT & FACILITATION Terms of Reference METHODOLOGY Identify Steering Group Membership Facilitate Group Discussions Advice on Market Suitability & Value Adding Developing Specifications for Additional Studies WORK PLAN PHASE TIMING & COSTS Timing Costs APPENDICES Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C SLR Experience CVs of Selected SLR Personnel SLR background Understanding of the Brief SLR ii

3 1.0 INTRODUCTION SLR Environmental Consulting Ireland (SLR) is pleased to submit a proposal to provide services for the Tourism Development & Project Management for the Galty Mountains, which straddle Counties Limerick, Cork and South Tipperary. Ballyhoura Development (BD) is acting on behalf of a group of local stakeholders based in the three counties who are seeking to develop a natural heritage and activity-based tourism destination. The proposed supports will seek to coordinate the activities of a Steering Group sourced from public, private and community stakeholders to develop an innovative tourism destination based on the natural geological and cultural strengths of the Galty Mountains and hinterlands. SLR will nominate two highly experienced professionals to provide supports to develop a forward looking strategy, guaranteed to address the terms of reference. Phase 1 will focus on identification and canvassing of key actors to participate in the Steering Group, facilitate the activities of that group and advise on market requirements and supports identified in the baseline Study. Where necessary, the consultants will also provide tendering support in development of specifications for particular pieces of work and evaluation of responses. Phase 2 will manage the delivery of studies, identify resource requirements and target strategic public-private partners as necessary for inputs and potential investment. Effective communications with community partners and other stakeholders will be critical through the two phases. 1.1 Introduction to SLR Founded in Dublin in 1984 (as the CSA Group), SLR Consulting is one of Ireland s leading rural tourism, environmental and resources consultancies. SLR has conducted feasibility studies for recreational (walking, cycling, natural and cultural heritage) strategies for local authorities, statutory agencies and local development companies in Ireland and Northern Ireland, with associated implementation and marketing strategies to ensure maximum leverage. As part of each project, SLR has carried out meaningful consultations with community actors, landowners, service providers and decision makers at all levels, to ensure ownership and ultimate sustainability of the relevant strategy. SLR provides high quality services across a range of disciplines including: Strategic planning for integrated development strategies, including community-based public-private partnerships; Development strategies for activity based tourism and enterprise in rural areas; Research and strategic positioning of recreational tourism projects: heritage/ walking/ hiking; looped walks/ cycling routes; water based sports & angling; tourism planning & development; Stakeholder engagement through consultation, questionnaire and focus groups; Research of natural, cultural and built heritage to develop marketable products; including field mapping, surveying, cartography, GPS, land registry services; Physical development of projects in consultation with client agencies and local communities; with full regard to public safety and environmental issues such as special areas of conservation (SAC, NHA) etc, with advice on physical infrastructure, signage, bridging, trail furniture; associated costs; SLR 1

4 Training & capacity building for service providers to develop recreational packages suited to the local product mix; Website development & training in its maintenance for marketing of local activities, services, products. Management structures, suited to communities, for sustainable products; Marketing strategies & promotional plans. See Appendix A for more details of our experience SLR Proposed Staff SLR will nominate Dr Deirdre Lewis as Project Manager, to work with Ballyhoura Development in tourism development facilitation and project management to address the key points of the terms of reference. Deirdre is a native of Tipperary, a geologist and keen hillwalker, and also an accredited National Trail Advisor with the National Trails Office. She has worked with communities, County Councils, Heritage Offices and LEADER companies nationwide to develop strategies, in consultation, scoping, selection, characterisation, feasibility, market research and promotion of activity tourism. Over the past decade, Deirdre has spearheaded SLR s recreational and tourism development services, specifically through strategies for walking/ cycling/ geology interpretation/ archaeology/ and heritage projects, supporting also the development of soft integrated services and packages through co-ordination of service providers and training of guides. She also provides training to community groups through workshops and field based demonstrations in landscape interpretation. She is currently managing a project for Louth Peace & Reconciliation Partnership for the EU PEACE III Shared Heritage & Myths programme ( ), using landscape & archaeological interpretation in peace building measures ( This also aims to build leadership for cross-border tourism opportunities beyond life of project. She has worked extensively in developing community-based recreational tourism initiatives, and was the project leader for development of the Walking Strategy for the Cooley Peninsula (2008-9); in development of the Carlow Walking-Cycling Strategy for Carlow LEADER, and the Killesher Tourism Marketing Initiative at Florencecourt in Co Fermanagh through (see for Fermanagh District Council and local community groups. The latter included consultations with the Cuilcagh Mountain Geopark, and identification of means by which more benefits could accrue to the local community from the visitor footfall. She worked with Southwest Mayo Development in 2009 to support a community group in strategic re-direction in late 2009 to develop a Road Map for Local Development through an extensive consultative process. She advised the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and Geological Survey of Northern Ireland on strategic directions for increased north-south collaboration and funding opportunities, to formulate a Geological Memorandum of Understanding between the two jurisdictions, including development of UNESCO Geoparks. Deirdre will be responsible for stakeholder communications, identification of Steering Group members, overall project management and tourism development supports. She will be supported by Mr. Alan Hill, SLR Principal Associate, who is widely acknowledged as one of Ireland s authorities on sustainable tourism development. Alan has worked in management positions with Waterways Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Town & Country Homes and the Western Development Tourism Programme in marketing and SLR 2

5 implementation of innovative, sustainable and eco-tourism initiatives. As programme manager with the Western Development Tourism Programme (WDTP; ), he was the brain child of the Green Box Strategy, Ireland s first regional eco-tourism initiative across the counties of Leitrim, Cavan, Fermanagh and Sligo, including sourcing funding of more than 1 million within the first year. His experience of commissioning studies, in particular the Walking in the West strategy on behalf of the WDTP, will bring real value to the SLR team. Alan has also worked on a number of cross-border projects and will lend his experience to identifying development and financing opportunities. Alan is part of SLR s team working on the EU PEACE III Shared Heritage & Myths programme ( ), with particular emphasis on tourism opportunities, communications and marketing. Alan also contributed management and marketing expertise to SLR s Walking Strategy for the Cooley Peninsula (2008-9) for Louth County Council. He will be responsible for facilities auditing, tourism infrastructure & trends research and product development aspects of the brief. Alan is expert in marketing & promotion of recreational and tourism products and will advise on a cogent communications and marketing strategy. He will also assist as required in developing tender documents and evaluations. The team will also bring extensive mapping, website development and marketing advisory expertise through SLR s in-house cartographic expert Eamonn Kelly, a keen walker and photographer. Eamonn will provide cartographic and GIS support throughout the life of project. See Appendix B for detailed Curriculum Vitae. SLR 3

6 2.0 GALTY MOUNTAINS TOURISM DEVELOMENT & FACILITATION 2.1 Terms of Reference Terms of Reference Background: The baseline study of the Galty Mountains identified the areas potential for tourism development through interpretation of the geological, cultural and heritage of the mountains and its surrounding areas and potential for outdoor recreation activities. The rationale for the project is that the Galty Mountains, Ireland highest inland peaks, represent some of the finest sites for geo and eco tourism in Ireland and if developed appropriately and supported through targeted marketing could yield benefits to local communities who co-exist within the Galty Mountains area. The project will create a demand for the area s natural and manmade attractions as well as enhance the visitor experience by providing high quality visitor interpretation product through a well trained pool of professional guides. The Role: The role at this early stage of development is one of project facilitation and management. Facilitation and management of the development of a steering group with a mix of public and private and community partners to guide the project development will be key prior to working with the steering group to develop and agree specifications and evaluation criteria for further studies and for the overall strategic development plan that will be required. Work Plan Phase One Contact and convince key individuals within the public and community sectors to participate in the steering group. Facilitate and manage the group discussions based on Galty baseline study and agree terms of reference for the group. Advice on market suitability and value added for identified proposals from the steering group and within the baseline study. Develop specifications for additional studies/feasibilities that will be required. Place specifications for tender. Evaluate tenders with Steering Group. Work Plan Phase Two Manage delivery of studies. Determine skills and resources needed for the developments. Identify strategic partners and potential private investors to deliver on the proposals. Organise debrief to community representatives Date of commencement: Autumn 2010 Responsible to: Project Steering Group Please provide Interested consultants must provide the following information that will indicate that they are qualified to perform the services: Provide a summary which shall include a description of your proposed approach and methodology. Provide information on your expertise and experience with any prior similar assignments and experience in similar conditions. Provide a breakdown of the costing for the proposal including a detailed costing of phase one and an indicative budget for phase two. SLR will address this brief as set out below. SLR 4

7 3.0 METHODOLOGY This section elaborates the key steps that SLR will take, in full consultation with Ballyhoura Development, in facilitating the development of an excellent platform on which to build a world-class recreational destination. The following Sections ( ) highlight the key items to be addressed by SLR in Phase 1, while Section 3.5 focuses on Phase 2 activities to strengthen the dynamic to make this area one of Ireland s premier activity tourism destinations. 12 key outputs are defined as deliverables, highlighted throughout the text. PHASE ONE WORK PLAN 3.1 Identify Steering Group Membership SLR will attend a kick-off meeting with Ballyhoura Development at the outset and will work forwards base don their guidance, as follows. ACTION : ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION Preliminary meeting with Ballyhoura Development and Targeting the right people other parties to meet the Objectives Clearly define objectives at the outset Who are the key stakeholders/ partners required? of Participation >> identify likely candidates for proposed steering group Galty Mountains Project List key people & their strengths for Steering Group Development agencies > who should be on board Develop communications plans Consultations Contact potential Steering Group members who will act as drivers of overall project (policy makers, farmers, tourism interests, service providers, walking/ cycling groups, community activists etc) Access & insurance >> landowners must be on board based on lessons learned elsewhere Scope management options with Consultees OUTPUT 1 DEFINED STEERING GROUP CLEAR OBJECTIVES SCOPED MANAGEMENT OPTIONS SLR 5

8 3.2 Facilitate Group Discussions SLR will convene a meeting(s) with the new Steering Group (SG) to discuss the core objectives and to define an agreed terms of reference to achieve those objectives. The latter is critical in that voluntary committees are frequently over-stretched and potentially unfocussed. SLR are willing to work in evening sessions, as many of the SG may be working during daytime. Facilitated sessions will be held with the SG to ensure that everybody is familiar with the outcome of the Baseline Study and that they accept the recommendations. Changed economic circumstances since the study was undertaken may require focussed thought and slight redefinition of some of the recommendations. The recreational infrastructure of the Galty Mountains, particularly the soft supporting services will be central to implementation of the recommendations of the Baseline Study. Infrastructural deficits need to be addressed, with outdoor and possibly family-friendly, all-weather facilities, with well signed and interpreted attractions, including accommodation, food and entertainment. Web-accessible maps of recreational trails in attractive formats, showing trail heads, good and unambiguous signage (possibly with a distinctive logo), with loops and grades suited to a variety of users will be requisite. Integration of existing tourism facilities and services will be a priority. SLR will facilitate the definition of a strategic road map of actions to move the project forwards in a collaborative fashion: What needs to be done? Who is going to do it? What resources are required (Human, social, financial)? When can items be achieved practical timeframe? How might it be financed? SLR will address each of these issues, proposing practical solutions to facilitate the deliberations of the Steering Group. OUTPUT 2 STRATEGIC ROAD MAP OF ACTIONS TO MOVE PROJECT FORWARDS (Actions by whom, by when, how, how much?) 3.3 Advice on Market Suitability & Value Adding The basic SWOT analysis of the Galty Mountains undertaken in the Baseline Study needs to be built upon, to identify specific sub-sectoral strengths and weaknesses. The Study identified the possibility for a Geopark as one of its main recommendations. SLR have in-house geological staff, who will be in a position to advise on the core aspects of this concept, given our work in geological advisory work for Cuilcagh Moutains Geopark, proposals for Cooley-Gullion-Mourne Geopark, Geological Survey of Ireland, Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, the EPA, National Roads Authority and various county councils. The Geopark concept is sponsored by UNESCO (rather than Europe per se) and is gaining momentum internationally, but unfortunately is not funded at the early stages by UNESCO rather the local authorities and other stakeholders must first finance the establishment of the geopark, with later imprimatur by UNESCO with associated marketing and international branding. There have been some difficulties in e.g. the Cooley-Gullion-Mourne plans for a geopark, since landowners are opposed on the perceived grounds that it is a first step to National Park status with curtailment of their activities. Thus a Geopark is not a panacea and SLR 6

9 all such issues will need to be fully addressed in the Galty context. SLR s Deirdre Lewis, professional geologist, will facilitate a workshop with the Steering Group to tease out all the issues: challenges, costs, step-by-step analysis of the commitment and resources required to develop an international Geopark (see Geological map below SLR will facilitate this element, based on international best practice with case studies for how it can best be achieved, based on our experience. We will conduct an audit as part of the inputs to the Steering Group, based on our extensive experience. These data will be recorded on map base, so that all facilities are visible at a glance. This will also demonstrate any glaring spatial gaps in service provision. Other market objectives can also be defined following a detailed audit of current facilities, particularly the supporting services and how well/ poorly these are integrated. For example, a detailed audit of services and recreational facilities can go a long way towards getting providers to work together to make a coherent Destination Galty. It is imperative that highest standard accommodation, fresh food outlets, pubs, restaurants and specific services such as forward baggage handling, transport (pick-up, taxi) from key points in the mountains and drying facilities are available. Preferably, if these can be integrated to make it easy for a visitor to access them through a website, the more effective the marketing. Recreational trails provide spines from which accommodation, food, entertainment and transport service providers can work together to collaborate to compete, as evidenced in the excellent model along Scotland s West Highland Way ( Current Product & Service provision for Galty Mountains Audit of existing services & facilities Identify core gaps in product/ services Assess tourist demands & trends for recreational facilities Practical (do-able) suggestions for new facilities/ start-ups Existing / Potential for tourism revenues & jobs? Environmental upgrading & enhancement options with County Councils (if any) Costings, timeframes & potential sources of funding? SLR 7

10 Existing Trail Infrastructure - potential enhancement / new facilities Trails: Existing Galty trails (formal & informal) / Heritage/ loop & local trails/ other uses? Map them out, with potential for new activities - grade surface, length, climb, access, parking? Characterise current & future requirements Other routes selection (linear/ looped/ future options) Options for extension of Ballyhoura mountain biking? Equestrian? Environmental/ niche aspects for promotion (geology, landscape, botany, ecology, birdlife angling/ heritage/ ecclesiastical/ /culture, archaeology, vernacular architecture, water trails; etc) Current maintenance & management of routes (if any) Accreditation by NTO and Fáilte Ireland? Costings & longer term timeframes to achieve the above Following this audit, the Steering Group will be convened and facilitated by SLR s Alan Hill to discuss existing proposals, new opportunities for innovation, collaboration and value adding, and how feasible these are, based on his extensive tourism development expertise. Marketing is critical to reach the desired target market and can be tailored for specific attractions, niches and heritage features of the Galtys. Critically, the strategy must define who will do the marketing, who will fund it and how the products may be promoted most effectively. Marketing & Promotion Who will be responsible? Linkages to Coillte, Fáilte Ireland, community bodies, Co Councils; etc Branding Galty Mountains or other? Play on the world renowned Tipperary brand? Development of dedicated Website Promotion of supporting services Promotion: sea routes/ airports/ access points/ magazines Marketing linked to existing marketing initiatives in South Munster/ SE Region/ SW Region e-marketing Suggestions for development of an effective website, linked to critical promotional bodies and tools Training in its ongoing maintenance and updating Establishing a database of walking clubs/ cycling clubs etc Bi-monthly Galtys e-zine for circulation Web-based Events calendar East-West Dimension with Galtees/ Comeraghs (Collaborate to Compete) Explore the potential for cross-sectoral marketing (recreation; creative arts; music; wildlife; painting; birdwatching, photography; other) Cross-cultural experiences (food, music.) SLR 8

11 Following rigorous practical and financial (versus wish list) examination of the options for marketing, enhancement and value adding, the Steering Group will be in a position to make informed decisions on the potential for the Galty Mountains project. Plans will be drawn up to characterise the proposals from the Steering Group deliberations for final sign-off prior to moving to the next stage. OUTPUT 3 OUTPUT 4 OUTPUT 5 MARKET ANALYIS OF POTENTIAL PRODUCTS (GEOPARK ETC) BASE MAP OF ALL PRODUCTS (WALKS/ TRAILS/ HERITAGE) AND SERVICES (ACCOMMODATION/ FOOD/ TRANSPORT/ GUIDES) REQUIRED TO DEVELOP DESTINATION GALTY STRONGLY DEFINED PROPOSALS FOR FUTURE WORK 3.4 Developing Specifications for Additional Studies Based on the outcome of the Market suitability exercise described above, there may be a requirement for additional studies to strengthen the overall strategy. Examples might include those identified in the Baseline Study as well as requirements for future integration (see below for potential checklist): Integration of Supporting Services Attractive web-site, with integrated online bookings Access to the area by public transport, car Clear & unambiguous signage off the motorways/ national & regional roads Clear local (trail) signage, well maintained Food outlets/ food producers - emphasise local food Access to heritage features & interpretation Access to evening entertainment e.g. local music Potential for integrated ticketing to capture audience Maps & brochures; availability online / locally Facilities for outdoor enthusiasts e.g. drying, baggage handling Provision of a total experience the wow factor Short break packages & servicing Local Guides training of youngsters/ retired? Building on existing initiatives: walking festivals (Galtys - June Bank Holiday etc) Identify opportunities for further trails, possibly themed (geo, archaeology, eco, mountain etc) SLR will advise the Steering Group on some of these issues, particularly in relation to international case studies and how such excellence has been achieved. Ballyhoura s own developmental experience will be invaluable at this stage. SLR will work with the Steering Group to select core projects and will develop the specifications for tenders., as required under the terms of reference. Both Deirdre Lewis and Alan Hill have commissioned such work, particularly the latter in his term with Western SLR 9

12 Develompetn Tourism Programme, e.g. Alan commissioned the key work on integration of walking trails development, maintenance and training for the West of Ireland (Walking in the West, a Step-by-Step guide to developing a world-class walking product)) and screened tenders and oversaw the study as part of that exercise. Additionally, Alan s brainchild and innovative thinking with WDTP led to the development of the Green Box concept in Leitrim-Cavan-Fermanagh-Sligo mountain area, which has won international awards for its ground-breaking projects and integration of eco-tourism Evaluation of Tenders All of this experience will be brought to bear to the Galtys project, to evaluate tenders and to ensure that the appropriate mix of projects are defined and commissioned. OUTPUT 6 OUTPUT 7 SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL STUDIES DEVELOPED TENDERS EVALUATED AS REQUIRED PHASE TWO WORK PLAN This section by nature cannot be as detailed as Phase 1, given the need to see the outcomes and results of the first phase. 3.5 WORK PLAN PHASE 2 Pending the outcomes of Phase 1, SLR will address Phase 2 as follows: Manage Delivery of Studies SLR has demonstrable experience in commissioning and managing studies, with the relevant professional indemnities in place. Studies will be clearly defined with strong specifications through sharp terms of reference, schedules and defined deliverables. We will manage the delivery by strong communication, with milestones defined in a project plan. Where more than one study may be commissioned at any one time, we will allocate project management to those on our team with most expertise: Deirdre Lewis for commissioning of geopark/ recreation/ geology/ natural history/ cultural history); financing; Alan Hill for marketing/ promotional / product development, sourcing funds Eamonn Kelly will advise on all aspects of web development, and web-based e- marketing and training. Each team member will advise on training aspects. SLR also has extensive planning, environmental impact and master planning skills in-house and will be able to provide back-up at any stage to the team. OUTPUT 9 EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF STUDIES, proven track record SLR 10

13 3.5.2 Determine Skills & Resources In Phase 1, SLR s audit will have identified strategic skills, resources and gaps in the overall product and services offering. However, in the course of the audit, we will also attend to the soft skills deficits and strengths, and identify what needs to be done where. The Steering Group, through its own local experience will also be well aware of the requirements on project development, so that combined, there will be a very strong sense of what needs to be done. There is no doubt that the key skills and resources required will be in determining who will drive this project forward and what type of sustainable Management Structure will be required. Following a determination of what skills are required, training is the next logical step. SLR could provide some focused training & facilitation, as done previously for e.g. the Killesher Tourism Marketing Project, beside the Cuilcagh Mountain Geopark in Fermanagh, where we established small working groups of service providers and facilitated them to develop suitable packages for defined target tourism groups of visitors. Training needs and upskilling requirement, with suitable course/ workshops will be identified. OUTPUT 10 EVIDENCE-BASED IDENTIFICATION OF KEY SKILLS AND RESOURCES IDENTIFICATION OF TRAINING/ UKSKILLING REQUIREMENTS Identify Strategic Partners to deliver on Proposals SLR will identify strategic partners, at a higher level than local, for development of the Destination Galtys. Critical to this will be the potential for extension of the current area of focus, and whether this would make sense for the communities of the Galty Mountains catchment. The Baseline Study mentions collaboration with the Knockmealdowns and Comeraghs. However, in the current economic climate the concept of collaborate to compete is requisite and SLR will explore the possibilities for collaboration with neighbouring areas, specifically: Scope for a Tipperary / Waterford /Galtys Alliance - given the contiguous geological nature of the mountains? Possibilities for promotional links to east-west Galtees/ Comeraghs/ Ballyhoura trails & explore options for joined-up recreational trails (hiking/ heritage/ mountain biking) & marketing Given the outstanding geological position of the Galtys and its neighbouring mountain chains in relation to the formation of the Alps and Pyrenees, collaborations could be explored with the Galtees/ Knockmealdowns/ Comeraghs/ Ballyhoura/ Monavullagh Mountains creation of a Munster Mountain GeoPark could be explored to gain international UNESCO status and credibility, including partnerships with Geological Survey of Ireland/ Copper Coast. Potential for private sector investment will be explored. Potential of private individuals and firms locally, philanthropic funds, and various European and national funds will be explored. Public private partnerships may provide a good vehicle for success, but this would require a very clearly defined ownership, management and legal structure, concepts which are frequently difficult to sell to community players, who feel disempowered. These issues will be teased out with the Steering Group. Alan Hill will advise on these matters using his extensive experience in the Tourism industry and tourism education in Sligo Institute of Technology, and ability to identify funding sources, with inputs from team members. OUTPUT 11 SLR WILL IDENTIFY STRATEGIC PARTNERS WITH SG SLR 11

14 3.5.4 Organise De-Brief to Community Representatives In order to develop a phased and dynamic approach and to ensure full ownership of the overall Strategy by those communities upon which it impacts, it will be necessary to be as representative as possible in the early deliberations, to consult with all the relevant players and to keep the communications door open. We will, throughout the project, communicate effectively through consultations with relevant communities. It would be inadvisable to leave this to the end, where people feel that a solution is being handed to them, without sufficient inputs. SLR has convened innumerable workshops, public meetings and feedback sessions to community, statutory agency, PEACE III, and the full range of development actors in order to both canvass opinion and to convey the outcomes of given projects. OUTPUT 12 SLR WILL ORGANISE DEBRIEFINGS WITH COMMUNTIY REPS SLR 12

15 4.0 TIMING & COSTS It is anticipated that the development of world class tourism destination will necessarily be spread over a number of months, due to the consultation process required with stakeholders and the Steering Group, as well as concept development time. A different timeframe could be envisaged, pending the detailed requirements of the group. 4.1 Timing Our experience of such projects emphasises that at least three four (3-4) months of time will be required to go through due process with the Steering Group, including evening meetings for voluntary individuals and community groups. SLR PROPOSED SCHEDULE: KNOCKMEALDOWN MOUNTAINS - RECREATIONAL STRATEGY Activity PHASE 1 Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 1. Contact Key Individuals set up Steering Group define objectives & Road Map 2. Facilitate Steering Group Discussions 3. Marketing Suitability & Value adding 4. Specs for additional Studies / Feasibilities/ place specs for tender, Evaluate tenders 5. Meetings, Consultations & Reporting Key Output: RECREATIONAL STRATEGY Tendering for Proposals Final Proposals 4.2 Costs SLR estimate the total cost of the project will not exceed 16,200, including expenses, which plus VAT at 21% will bring the total to 19,602. We estimate that up to 30 consultant days and evenings over a period of three/four months in Autumn 2010 will be required at minimum (see overleaf). SLR 13

16 SLR PROPOSED BUDGET: GALTYS RECREATIONAL STRATEGY Activity 1. Contact Key Individuals set up Steering Group define objectives & Road Map Daily Rate No. Days uro Who? DL/ AH 2. Facilitate Steering Group Discussions DL / AH 3. Marketing Suitability & Value adding AH/ EK 4. Specs for additional Studies / Feasibilities/ place specs for tender, DL/ AH/EK Evaluate tenders 5. Meetings, Consultations & Reporting All Expenses: 45c/km, meals, telecoms, attend meetings 21% 1200 TOTAL ( URO - incl. VAT & Expenses) 19, The estimated cost includes Phase 1 Consultant time, travel costs associated with consultation meetings with the Galty s Steering Group, overheads (including insurance) and two copies of the final report. The rates quoted remain valid for three months. Depending on the outcome of Phase 1, it is anticipated that similar time and budget of less than 19,000 would be required in Phase 2 to manage the delivery of studies and to determine skills requirements, training needs and identification of strategic partners. This of course will be determined by the outcome of Phase 1. SLR would propose a payment schedule of 40% on signature of contract to cover outlay expenditure, and 60% on delivery of the final report. SLR 14

17 Appendix A SLR EXPERIENCE SLR 15

18 SLR Consulting Ireland is focused on community and rural development through the effective interaction of agency, community, business, and environmental interests SLR team members have worked with a number of relevant agencies and product developers in recreational tourism development in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland (ROI), including SEUBP (PEACE II, PEACE III); InterReg, Western Development Commission (Tourism Programme); Udarás na Gaeltachta, Shannon Development, National Parks & Wildlife Service, Office of Public Works, Marine Institute, Heritage Council, Geological Survey of Ireland, County Councils and Borough/ District Councils, as well as many LEADER companies nationwide. SLR has a track record in the research, scoping and development of activity and heritage recreational strategies, as well as environmental impact evaluation and sustainable project management strategies (See Annexe A). SLR is managing on behalf of PEACE III s Louth Peace & Reconciliation Partnership ( ), the concept of Shared Heritage & Myths to develop a platform on which to build understanding of common heritage as a platform for the future. This encompasses guided landscape & archaeological walks and talks, creative arts projects and domestic heritage arts of the hearth with communties. See for further details. SLR completed an integrated Walking Strategy for the Cooley Peninsula on behalf of Louth County Council (2008-9), combining recreation, health and tourism to identify suitable walking /cycling trails and niche activity (birdwatching, geology) routes (upland, lowland, coastal, town) and business opportunities to market the area as a premier recreational destination. It also included consultations and plans for citizen health promotion through walking, followed by presentations of consultation results to focus groups. A full implementation plan, with management & maintenance schedules were included, as well as proposals for a marketing & promotional strategy. Feasibility Study for the Development of Walking/ Cycling Routes in Co. Carlow, on behalf of Carlow LEADER (2006-7). This involved identification and mapping of existing (formal & informal) long distance and looped trails; identification of potential routes (e.g defunct railways as cycling trails); consultations with relevant stakeholders; identification of business opportunities linked to aspects of the county s heritage, such as industrial heritage and heritage gardens. Maps in GIS were produced of existing and potential routes, all compatible with Carlow Co Council software. In Northern Ireland (2005-6), SLR worked with PEACE II and Fermanagh District Council to develop community-based tourism strategy at Killesher in Florencecourt, Co Fermanagh, to include angling, rowing, equestrian, walking, cycling, caving, natural and built heritage, linked to private sector service providers and publicly owned honeypots (Florencecourt House/ Marble Arch Caves). SLR researched & produced: o Audit of all the existing recreational facilities, producing interactive maps o Digital database of all service providers in Co Fermanagh o Community consultations through interview and questionnaire o Production of information newsletter o Developed network of service providers in new Community Tourism Forum. o Capacity building workshops over 6-months, with service providers, to develop holiday packages of services, food, accommodation & activities. o Developed linkages of community based tourism partnerships (Killesher/ Lough MacNean/ Green Box/ KiltyCashel/ Boho-Ballinaglera etc). o Development of Marketing Strategy o Marketing products: logo, brochures (downloadable); map guides; o A full GIS-based interactive Website o Brochures and maps for guided/ self-guided activities. SLR 16

19 SLR worked with Kildare County Council (2006-7), with Heritage Council/ Irish Sports Council partners to audit and identify heritage aspects of the Grand Canal, Royal Canal and spur lines, habitats of forest walks, town walks and Slí na Shláinte. Full audit of all built, natural and archaeological/ industrial heritage along 26 routes within the county, ranked and prioritised for development by the Local Authority. A ranked system of assessing the relative merits of the routes was developed, to prioritise the most significant routes for further development and promotion by Kildare Co Co. All GIS based maps. Feasibility Studies for walking/ cycling/ equestrian routes have been carried out in counties Mayo, Donegal, Leitrim, Fermanagh, and Donegal, while other projects are under development at Malin Head (IRDL), Mayo (Tochar Valley Way) Connemara (Clochar na gcon). Working with the Western Development Commission s Tourism Programme ( ), SLR developed the Walking Through Time Strategy to select and develop community guided (linear and looped) walks incorporating aspects of natural and built heritage, archaeology, botany, soils, farming / fishing practices, vernacular architecture and building stones, local history, etc linking the natural and cultural landscapes. This programme had a very strong component of consultation with local communities as well as capacity building for route development, marketing & promotion. Pilot routes were developed at Bluestacks (Donegal), Slieve Bán (Roscommon), while others were scoped or developed later (Malin Head, Kiltyclogher, Erris, South Mayo, Connemara etc). SLR carried out a feasibility study for the development of an Archaeological Heritage Park in Glinsk, Co. Galway (LEADER) with the local community (2005). For the cross-border KiltyCashel Project (Fermanagh/ Leitrim) with PEACE II assistance, SLR audited a number of informal walking & cycling trails in the Kiltyclogher/ Lough Navar/ Big Dog district, for route standards, archaeology, geology, key points of interest etc, to develop a strategic plan for tourism purposes. At the second stage SLR developed marketing products, including fliers/ brochures and an upgraded website. Preliminary scoping studies were carried out in Erris and the Ox Mountains on behalf of the local LEADER companies and communities in 2002 to review options for sustainable tourism development. SLR, through its engineering arm, has worked in the scoping and development of defunct industrial heritage sites at Silvermines and Arigna mines. The proposed Shallee Heritage Centre was fully scoped on behalf of Shannon Development in , in terms of design, public safety, underground passages & costings. Training & Capacity Building: SLR undertakes training in project development, management, maintenance and marketing, to include all aspects of best practice as set out by National Trails Office of the Irish Sports Council and other bodies e.g. Wicklow County Council and Cavan-Monaghan Rural Development in 2006, to meet best international practice, within a fit-for-purpose model. Public Education/ Outreach o SLR have worked with RTE Radio on inputs to the natural science programme The Goldilocks Planet (2008) o SLR staff worked with BBC Northern Ireland to produce a landscape-based radio travel series on understanding the landscape of Northern Ireland ( Rock n Road ) (2002) o SLR staff worked with BBC 2 television to produce an episode of Mysteries in the Landscape focused on the origins of gold in Ireland s museums, from the mountains of Wicklow, Mayo and the Sperrins (2002) SLR 17

20 o SLR worked in South Donegal with the Drimarone Development Co Ltd to enhance the appeal of the Bluestacks Way and Bluestacks Centre, through development of educational trails as part of the WDC Walking Through Time project, focussed on the schools geography syllabus (glacial, coastal, urban). SLR produced maps, interactive CDs, wall posters and field guides for students, to appreciate and learn about the geographical and natural heritage of the area. SLR also provided supportive training of local guides (farmers, fishermen) drawn from Rural Social Schemes (RSS) to facilitate visitors. SLR has worked with the above bodies to develop links to accommodation and food providers, transport, energy efficiency and entertainment, with a particular eye to sustainability measures for rural socio-economic development. SLR 18

21 ANNEXE A: SLR EXPERIENCE: ACTIVITY TOURISM PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Since 1984, SLR have been providing high quality consultancy services in tourism, heritage, environmental management and renewable energy, as well as mineral surveying, planning and geotechnical engineering. SLR retains full graphics, GIS and digital mapping services in-house. SLR has worked with clients, including LEADER companies, Western Development Tourism Programme (WDTP), PEACE II, Udarás na Gaeltachta, local authorities and national agencies to explore options for sustainable rural development. This has focussed on activity tourism products, including development of walking/ cycling routes and niche activities such as caving, angling and bird-watching. SLR offers professional services in the following areas: Research & Scoping Studies: Research best international practice in product design to select optimal walking/ cycling/ heritage trails, considering land access, heritage, and scenery. e.g. in Erris and the Ox Mountains on behalf of the local LEADER companies and communities. Route Development: focus on selection of recreational routes, access, insurance, funding, management and maintenance issues, incorporating aspects of natural & built heritage, archaeology, botany, farming / fishing practices, architecture and building stones, history, etc linking the natural and cultural landscapes e.g. WDTP Walking Through Time initiative. Trail Advisory services on behalf of National Trails Office, for groups seeking accreditation by NTO. Feasibility Studies in walking / cycling routes SLR have completed projects in counties Carlow, Donegal, Fermanagh, Galway, Kildare, Leitrim and Mayo, including cross-border studies. Heritage Auditing of walking routes to identify natural and built heritage features, including industrial and archaeological heritage, land use, habitats of canals, forests, town paths & gardens e.g. Co. Kildare Environmental Impact Studies: SLR have advised clients on the likely environmental impact of the development and have undertaken EIAs to determine the optimal design to mitigate potential impacts (e.g. U na G). Marketing Initiatives: Advice on marketing products to tourists and niche groups such as hikers, cyclists, birdwatchers, cavers etc. SLR developed a tourism marketing initiative, based on walking, hiking, angling and cycling in Killesher, Fermanagh, linked to major local attractions, at Florencecourt House/ Marble Arch Caves (Peace II/ InterReg). Collaborative Packages: SLR work with service providers to develop attractive collaborative packages of accommodation, dining and activity options for short-break visitors e.g. Florencecourt, co Fermanagh. Training: SLR provides practical hands-on training for service providers in product development, collaborative working for service providers, marketing and promotion, effective websites (Kiltyclogher, Killesher) Mapping/ Brochure: SLR is delighted to offer a full range of mapping services, from route scoping and design, map production, brand & logo development, brochures, fliers and marketing. Website Design and Training: SLR can design interactive website for effective marketing, with downloadable brochures for guided activities. Popular Science: SLR have contributed widely to popular science programmes with RTE and the BBC on both radio and television, and have led natural heritage field trips countrywide over a number of years. SLR 19

22 SLR RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Since 1999, SLR has worked with the Western Development Tourism Programme (WDTP), LEADER companies and Udarás na Gaeltachta, in full consultation with local authorities and national agencies, to explore options for sustainable rural development. In particular this work has focussed on energy, tourism and alternative uses for post-industrial sites, providing communities with options for stimulation of the local economies. SLR carried out a feasibility study into community ownership of wind farms in 2003, on behalf of the Western Development Commission, SEI and two community groups in Mayo and Donegal. This involved research into international models for community ownership of renewable energies. Extensive consultations were held with communities, WDC, LEADER, financial institutions, wind farm operators, to develop a model for ownership, with technical and financial templates for groups to follow. This was published by SEI as To Catch the Wind in SLR has provided the Secretariat and technical support to the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources collaborative PPP with the international energy industry since The SSI and PIP are multidisciplinary programmes to examine the strategic usage of Ireland s marine resources. Working with the WDTP, SLR has developed the strategic Walking Through Time programme, focused on developing guided walks incorporating aspects of natural and built heritage, archaeology, botany, soils, farming / fishing practices, vernacular architecture and building stones, local history, etc linking the natural and cultural landscapes. Feasibility studies for walking/ cycling routes have carried out in counties Mayo, Donegal, Leitrim, Fermanagh, and Donegal, while other projects are currently under development at Malin Head (IRDL), Mayo (Tochar Valley Way) Connemara (Clochar nag Con) and Carlow. Preliminary scoping studies were carried out in Erris and the Ox Mountains on behalf of the local LEADER companies and communities in 2002 to review options for sustainable tourism development. SLR has worked with Kildare County Council to identify heritage aspects of the Grand Canal, land use, habitats of forest walks, town walks and Slí na Shláinte. In Co. Carlow, SLR has almost completed a feasibility study on behalf of Carlow LEADER to develop walking/ cycling routes, linked to aspects of the county s heritage, such as industrial heritage and heritage gardens. SLR recently completed a Walking Strategy for Cooley Peninsula for Louth County Council. SLR is working with the PEACE III Louth Peace & Reconciliation Partnership to use the concept of Shared Heritage landscape, archaeology, & creative arts heritage to build a platform for future understanding and peace ( ). Under PEACE II, SLR developed a community-based recreational Marketing Strategy in Fermanagh, including walking, cycling, caving, natural and built heritage, linked to private sector service providers and publicly owned honeypots (Florencecourt House/ Marble Arch Caves). A full GIS-based interactive website and brochures were developed for guided/ self-guided activities (2005-6). SLR 20

23 SLR has worked in the scoping and development of defunct industrial heritage sites at Silvermines and Arigna mines. The proposed Shallee Heritage Centre was fully scoped on behalf of Shannon Development in , in terms of design, public safety, underground passages & costings. SLR have contributed widely to popular science programmes with RTE and the BBC on both radio and television, and have led natural heritage field trips countrywide over a number of years. SLR provides environmental planning and management solutions to a range of clients, particularly in the extractive industries in Ireland. SLR (JBA) has recently completed a comprehensive Guide to Environmental Management for Extractive Industries in Ireland on behalf of the EPA. SLR has worked with the EU, World Bank and UN on international development projects since We are currently working with the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and EU to promote investment into the SADC mineral sector, which supports an enormous subeconomy in rural Africa. Institutional capacity building and training are intrinsic parts of all of our projects, which to date have been carried out across Africa, Pacific and Caribbean regions. SLR advised on the South Sinai (Egypt) Regional Development Programme in 2004, designing strategies in five key functional areas with Egyptian authorities and EU, under the MEDA programme. This included water supply, solid and liquid waste management, energy requirements; protection of heritage and traditional communities and overall environmental protection of natural resources and marine environment. SLR 21

24 Appendix B CVs of SELECTED SLR PERSONNEL SLR 22

25 DR. DEIRDRE LEWIS EDUCATION 1982 B.Sc. (Hons), Natural Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland 1986 PhD., Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. AFFILIATIONS National Trail Advisor Irish Sports Council (NTO) Institute of Geologists of Ireland Member Ireland Committee UN International year of Planet Earth (2008) SPECIALIZATION Strategic Walking Route Development & Advisory Sustainable Rural & Community Development Geology, Geomorphology & Landscape Interpretation Project Management RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 1996 Present SLR Consulting Ireland (previously CSA Group) Principal Consultant Responsible for the development and management of natural resources projects, landscape-based tourism and sustainable development activities. Works extensively with EU/ UN in overseas development in Africa. Recent relevant projects include: 1999-ongoing Local communities with LEADER / Udarás na Gaeltachta support (Ireland) Louth Peace & Reconciliation Partnership: management of Shared Heritage & Myths Project, exploring landscape & archaeology of Louth & its Borderlands Louth Walking Strategy: Project manager for Walking Strategy for Cooley Peninsula for Louth County Council, including consultations; routes, trails and services audit; strategic planning, finance; marketing & promotion (2008-9). Udarás na Gaeltachta: Advisor regarding development of a post-industrial site in Co Mayo. Liaison with communities and statutory agencies to develop sustainable model linked to renewable energies and tourism (2006-7). Wicklow/ Monaghan: Getting Started Developing Walking Trails for Communities training for Wicklow Trails and Cavan/Monaghan Rural Dev. Step-by-step guide, group organisation, insurance, returns, management and marketing (2006). Co Carlow (LEADER).: Project manager for Feasibility Study for Development of Walking/ Cycling Trails, (April July 2006)). WDTP: Walking through Time: Integrated landscape tourism projects for Western Development Tourism Programme, with community training in development of guided walks and landscape interpretation. Working with community groups nationwide to interpret their local landscapes and heritage, to develop guided walks in time, using SLR 23