Bord na Móna scraps parking charge for Lough Boora visitors
Bord na Móna announced late last week that it was scrapping its parking charge for visitors to Lough Boora Discovery Park.
In recent years, those coming to the popular Offaly amenity faced a €5 parking fee, but the decision to waive the charge was announced by Bord na Móna on a social media post last Friday evening.
It described the removal of the parking charge as "a significant change" and one that was being taken "to enhance accessibility and encourage more visitors to enjoy the wonderful amenities" at the park.
The decision was welcomed by Fianna Fáil candidate for the Birr Municipal District, Barbara Daly, who last week criticised the level of upkeep and basic maintenance at Lough Boora.
The Ferbane-based candidate said the condition of the park was "a stain on the proud history of Bord na Móna," adding that she had written to its CEO to express her dissatisfaction with the current state of its facilities.
This week, Ms Daly said Bord na Móna's decision to remove parking charges at Lough Boora was a "welcome first step" in improving the amenity.
"I have highlighted the need for a strategic plan for Boora," she said. "Facilities need to be upgraded, pathways need to be improved and made accessible for all.
"Let's hope Bord na Móna put their shoulder to the wheel and ensure that summer visitors to West Offaly this year enjoy their visit and local people are able to visit this stunning amenity in comfort.
"This is a wonderful attraction and it must be the cornerstone of any tourism plan for the Midlands," she added.
"As a councillor, I will advocate for a tourism policy which builds on our natural heritage, our deep-rooted spiritual connections with early Christianity and our industrial heritage."
As part of its announcement on the end of parking charges, Bord na Móna said it was "delighted to welcome Ballycommon Bake House to Lough Boora Discovery Park, and welcome back Mid-Ireland Adventure".
"Don't forget to stop by the café and avail of bike hire services, available from 10am to 4.30pm, Wednesdays through Sundays.
"It's the perfect way to make the most of your visit and create lasting memories with friends and family," said Bord na Móna.
It said the car park would be open from 8:30am to 6:30pm each day.