Kilkenny Tourism Destination Plan launched
Repucon Consulting developed the Kilkenny Destination Experience Development Plan for Kilkenny that was launched on 30th April 2024 in St Canices Cathedral by Failte Ireland CEO, Paul Kelly. The five year plan maps out an ambitious programme of activity to build on the destinations rich culture and heritage of creativity.
The plan was develeoped around three strategic pillars that represent the basis for sustainable destination development. These pillars represented a spatial destination development approach focused on the city, county and the connectivity between the urban and rural experience. The approach is designed to grow the international appeal of Kilkenny City and enhance its role as a hub for the county experience. The three areas of focus included.
- Kilkenny City – Attractor and Hub
Develop the role of Kilkenny City as the county’s tourism hub and international tourism destination by developing a world class Medieval Mile and maximising the city’s natural, creative and built heritage assets to disperse visitors across the city.
- County Kilkenny – Exploration and Dwell
Grow the range and diversity of county based visitor experiences to motivate visitors to explore County Kilkenny, stay for longer and grow the value of tourism for local communities.
- Destination Links and Trails
Strengthen the connectivity between Kilkenny City and County based outdoor experiences and attractions to increase visitor flows throughout the county and stimulate new levels of tourism industry collaboration.
The vision inclues a focus on Kilkenny developing as a year round international destination recognised for a creative city experience blending medieval with contemporary. A revitalised Medieval Mile will be at the core of the Kilkenny City visitor experience motivating visitors to explore the wider city by linking Kilkenny Castle with iconic attractions who captivate audiences through their new experiential approach. The City and County are animated by vibrant festivals and events hosted in a mix of venues that reflect the creativity of the destination. Kilkenny recognised globally as a Ireland’s home for design, craft and creative experiences.
