THE possible development of a Blueway along the Finn and Foyle waterways is to be explored by Donegal County Council with one local councillor saying the benefits for business and local tourism would be huge.
Cllr. Patrick McGowan wants a co-ordinated plan put together to look at the potential for a Blueway along the two rivers which are so closely linked.
The Foyle flows from the confluence of the rivers Finn and Mourne at Lifford-Strabane and on into Derry city, separating Donegal from parts of Tyrone and Co. Derry along the way.
The River Finn is 40 miles long and runs mainly through the Finn Valley and into Tyrone.
Cllr McGowan insists Donegal County Council along with Derry City and Strabane District Council have an ideal product for a Shared Island project.
“These rivers need to be turned into an asset,” he said. “They could be developed in so many different areas and the potential for tourism and other benefits for the local communities are massive.”
The Foyle Valley Greenway Cycle Route is one example of a project that could be introduced on this side of the border.
The scenic cycle ride takes cyclists from Derry to Strabane through the River Foyle valley and is hugely popular among locals and visitors.
Cllr. McGowan said water sports and activities like fishing, kayaking and canoeing could all be part of a major plan if the relevant agencies sat down and discussed what could be done.
At a recent meeting of Donegal County Council, Cllr McGowan asked that a co-ordinated plan be drawn up. A council spokesperson said arrangements will be made to make contact with the relevant agencies to explore the idea.
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