New water sports hub opens at Acres Lake Leitrim
A cutting-edge water sports centre valued at €1.4 million has been inaugurated at Acres Lake, County Leitrim. This facility forms part of a wider €32 million national scheme aimed at boosting outdoor tourism and accessibility across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Source:
Fáilte Ireland
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⏱️ 2 min read
On 9 October 2026, the new Acres Lake Water Sports Facility was officially opened by Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD. This state-of-the-art amenity, developed through Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Investment Scheme in partnership with Leitrim County Council, is designed to enhance the visitor experience and serve as a key hub for water-based activities in the region.
The facility is one of up to 19 water sports venues being established across 13 counties under a €32 million investment programme targeting projects with strong tourism growth potential. It aims to boost Leitrim’s appeal as an outdoor activity destination by offering year-round access to premium features such as hot and cold showers, changing rooms, secure lockers, and an induction space. Accessibility and sustainability are central to the project, which includes full wheelchair access, photovoltaic solar heating panels, and County Leitrim’s first Changing Places facility.
Additional funding introduced in 2025 has improved access routes connecting arrival points, the water sports centre and the waterfront, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors. Local officials highlighted the facility’s role in supporting community groups, schools, swim clubs, and visitors using the Shannon Blueway. The project is expected to strengthen Leitrim’s reputation for Slow Adventure Tourism and contribute positively to local businesses and the wider economy.
The facility is one of up to 19 water sports venues being established across 13 counties under a €32 million investment programme targeting projects with strong tourism growth potential. It aims to boost Leitrim’s appeal as an outdoor activity destination by offering year-round access to premium features such as hot and cold showers, changing rooms, secure lockers, and an induction space. Accessibility and sustainability are central to the project, which includes full wheelchair access, photovoltaic solar heating panels, and County Leitrim’s first Changing Places facility.
Additional funding introduced in 2025 has improved access routes connecting arrival points, the water sports centre and the waterfront, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors. Local officials highlighted the facility’s role in supporting community groups, schools, swim clubs, and visitors using the Shannon Blueway. The project is expected to strengthen Leitrim’s reputation for Slow Adventure Tourism and contribute positively to local businesses and the wider economy.
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