By Róise Collins
CONCERNS are growing among locals and tour operators about restricted access to one of Arranmore’s most iconic landmarks, the island lighthouse, which some fear is becoming increasingly unwelcoming to visitors.
In recent weeks, tour bus drivers and several tourists who had hired bikes reported being turned away from the lighthouse by a nearby property owner who claimed the area was private.
The confusion and disappointment expressed by these visitors has sparked calls for clarity on public access rights to the 200 year old lighthouse perched on the north west corner of the island.
While the nearby properties are privately owned, the land surrounding the lighthouse itself is owned by the Commissioner of Irish Lights. The issue was discussed at Tuesday’s Island Committee meeting of Donegal County Council
“This is becoming a recurring issue,” said Arranmore Community Development Manager, John McCafferty.
“At a time when we are actively promoting tourism to the islands, it’s concerning that one of our most iconic landmarks is inaccessible and unwelcoming to visitors,” he added.
The matter has prompted calls on the council to seek clarification from the Commissioner of Irish Lights about access rights and in particular, whether locked gates currently blocking entry to the site are necessary or appropriate. Mr McCafferty acknowledged that private property owners have every right to secure their land but emphasised that this should not come at the expense of local tourism.
Islanders believe that improving access and reopening the lighthouse path for walkers would enhance the visitor experience and align with wider efforts to promote tourism on Arranmore.
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