NAVAIDS

Tourism surge lifts Loop Head lighthouse

15 years ago

A successful trial scheme that resulted in an estimated 17,000 people visiting the historic Loop Head lighthouse during an 11 week period last year means that the West Clare landmark will shortly re-open to the public.

Loop Head Lighthouse, located at the mouth of Ireland’s Shannon Estuary, is steeped in history and rich in maritime heritage, with its origins dating back to the 1670s. The existing tower style lighthouse was constructed in 1854 and was operated and maintained by a keeper who lived within the lighthouse compound. In January 1991, the lighthouse was converted to automatic operation, and today is in the care of an attendant and is also monitored by the Commissioners of Irish Lights (CIL).

It is thought that 10 jobs will be created, and Clare County Council, Shannon Development, Loop Head Tourism and the CIL are now seeking suitable consultants to research, design and implement an exhibition and interpretation plan to further expand the tourism offering at the lighthouse. The Request for Tender has recently been advertised on the council’s e-tenders website.