New website promotes attractions of Kilcormac
Kilcormac Development Association has launched a new website, visitkilcormac.com and audio guide to highlight the activities and attractions in the town and surrounds.
The website will act as a guide for visitors and natives alike on things to do on their doorstep, and provide a window into the rich history of the area.
It is part of a series of projects that positions Kilcormac as the gateway to Lough Boora Discovery Park, one of Ireland's great outdoor tourist destinations.
The new website features the new brand identity 'Kilcormac, The Gateway to Lough Boora', a project which is supported with REDZ (Rural Economic Development Zone) funding through Offaly County Council.
Like many rural towns, Kilcormac has seen many changes in recent years and the impact on the town as a result of the wind-down of Bord Na Mona has been devastating for Kilcormac. Whilst this brings massive challenges to the community, the 'new normal' brought about by COVID-19 has the potential to create an opportunity for towns like Kilcormac to adapt and reposition itself. The potential for a return of those working in Dublin and other cities is something being considered by the KDA's Economic Development Group. A lower cost of living and better quality of life is something that Kilcormac can certainly offer. Visitkilcormac.com showcases some of the attractions and activities locally.
Just 4km from Kilcormac, Lough Boora Discovery Park is considered one of Ireland's outdoor treasures. With 2,000 hectares of cutaway boglands, walking and cycling tracks, angling lakes, outdoor sculpture park, a habitat for countless species of birds and wildlife, flora and fauna, fairy avenue and a visitor centre, all for free, Lough Boora is growing in popularity every year. Indeed, it already attracts over 100,000 visitors annually.
The new tourism website, visitkilcormac.com, not only provides some information on Lough Boora Discovery Park, but also the wide range of activities and attractions on its doorstep. Kilcormac is just minutes away from the rest of Offaly's 'Big 6' tourist attractions, Clonmacnoise, Tullamore Dew, the River Shannon, the Slieve Bloom Mountains, and Birr Castle and Gardens.
The website also links to an audio guide which you can download and listen to as you walk around Kilcormac. The audio guide, created by Arbarta Heritage in conjunction with the Kilcormac Historical Society and the KDA’s Economic Development Group, introduces the listener to the heritage of the town. Listen to members of the community bring you on a trip through the history of Kilcormac, stretching right back to the 16th century.
This is also a wonderful resource for Kilcormac natives living abroad to learn a bit about the history of the area. The audio guide reflects the brand of Kilcormac; the powerful sense of community; its deep connection with the surrounding landscape; and a rich and diverse history.
These projects are developed by the KDA's Economic Development Group, who has been looking at the positives and potential of Kilcormac and building upon them. This group of community volunteers has been working with Offaly County Council and other groups and organisations to secure funding and support for projects that will enhance and promote the town and area.
The website was developed by Marketing Agency, Idea, who also created the new brand identity for Kilcormac, which reinforces Kilcormac as 'The Gateway to Lough Boora', and is inspired by Kilcormac's rich heritage and connection with the natural landscape.