Controversy has erupted after a barrier was erected to prevent camper vans park on the local pier in a popular Donegal seaside resort.
The 2.1 metre high structure was erected at Dunfanaghy Market Square, much to the disdain of campervanners. However, some locals have welcomed the move.
One van driver, posting on the Dunfanaghy & Porgnablagh Facebook page, said the move was one that will affect local businesses.
“I want it recorded that the news that you have erected barriers to the pier to prevent campervans stopping there will have a seriously detrimental effect on your local economy this summer,” he said.
“Campervanners love Dunfanaghy and Portnablagh and spend significant funds in bars, restaurants, takeaways, galleries and general retail.”
The man said he was a member of a national association of 8,000 van owners and the word has spread that they are not welcome in Dunfanaghy.
“We are working with the Council and KPMG to develop a strategy to embrace this growing sector in the county and this negative development shows that people do not see the potential benefit to your town,” he said.
“People from all over Ireland love to visit our county. Why would you make them feel unwelcome? Dunfanaghy is about to become a ‘blackspot’ to many of us. Personally we have spent money in every bar in the town, we are regulars at the coffee shop in Portnablagh, we have had several takeaways, bought paintings in a local gallery, and gifts in the craft shop by the pier…and much more. You can’t imagine the business you are about to lose.”
However, a number of locals welcomed the move, adding that there were a number of campervan parks nearby in Creeslough and at Corcreggan Mill.
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