Donegal could be showcasing golf-themed landscaped roundabouts by the time visitors arrive for the Irish Open 2018.
Inishowen Councillor Paul Canning asked Donegal County Council to allow for a golf-themed design to be manicured on roundabouts on the main roads to Ballyliffin Golf Club, where the tournament will be hosted.
Cllr Canning suggested that the expertise of Donegal’s golf course greenkeepers could be used to create signature designs for promotion.
Speaking at the July sitting of the Donegal County Council meeting, Cllr Canning said: “We have a number of roundabouts leading to Ballyliffin, there is an onus on us to manicure the design of the actual roundabouts to advertise the Letterkenny golf club as well as the Irish Open.”
John McLaughlin, Director of Service, Roads and Transportation, said additional planting and landscaping could be done to show the county in the best light. Proposals could be developed by Council parks staff for consideration for the 2018 Budget, he replied.
Hats off to Rory McIlroy
Cllr Martin Harley said the opportunity gained by Donegal hosting the Irish Open must be welcomed.
“We have to take our hats off to Rory McIlroy, without his backing it wouldn’t be coming to Ballyliffin. We have to welcome this opportunity to the county and we can work with all the businesses to make this a great year for golf and businesses in Donegal.”
Don’t inflate prices
“I would ask that all businesses don’t price themselves out of it that people come here for a good deal and don’t go away with sour tastes in their mouth,” Cllr Harley said.
“It is a great family day out. It is a great opportunity for kids to see people at the top of their sport.
Planning team
Cllr Bernard McGuinness also welcomed the upcoming arrival of the prestigious tournament to Donegal.
He said the sooner an implementation plan was started the better. He stated the Council should bring all authorities and interested parties into a dedicated council team.
“The one big question we have is roads and how to manage the traffic. I have no doubt the our team in the county will rise to that occasion. We need to get all this together. It is going to take time and the sooner we start the better,” Cllr McGuinness said.
World watching
Cllr John Ryan said all stakeholders need to get involved before Donegal is showcased to the world.
“It’s quite unique from a coverage point of view. A soccer game is 90 minutes, this goes on for four days. Ballyliffin and Donegal will be highlighted on a very large stage.
“You’re going to get people all over the US and Europe that are watching the showcase and wanting to come to Ballyliffin.”
“Now is the time to get all the stakeholders together to make sure we put ourselves on the map correctly,” Cllr Ryan said.
Liam Ward Director of Service with Donegal County Council said there is no question the Council will be more than willing to play its part in the success of the year.
Tags: