Towns and villages along the Wild Atlantic Way must capitalise on a predicted increase in visitor numbers by installing charging points for electric vehicles, a West Clare councillor has said.
Addition of electric vehicle charging points in towns and villages along the popular tourist route “in anticipation of the significant increase in visitor numbers expected with the easing of Covid restrictions” was requested by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG).
He noted that the summer period had been “exceptionally busy” with domestic visitors on the Wild Atlantic Way. Locating the charging points centrally would encourage motorists to avail of amenities in local areas, Keating felt which would “boost and encourage small tourism providers in retail, arts and crafts and the hospitality business to further develop their many offerings”.
Officials in the roads department need to commit to the proposal, the Cross native outlined. “We do not need a pilot scheme or any feasibility report. Car charging is readily available and is grant aided by the Department”.
Director of Services, Carmel Kirby detailed that local authorities had been urged to develop strategies within their areas for the rollout of electric vehicle charging points. “A plan for the rollout has yet to be devised but it is the intention of Clare County Council to develop a strategy, identify the optimum locations and commence rollout of charging points for electric vehicles as soon as funding becomes available”.
Speaking at a recent meeting of the County Council, Cllr Keating stressed that funding was available at present, “we should apply for it and move on, we will be left behind the same as with broadband if we don’t”. He added, “Be the first to install charging points on the Wild Atlantic Way, we have the attractions on the Cliffs of Moher right down to Loop Head and over to Vandeleur Walled Gardens and Scattery Island, apply now for the funding and get moving”.
As he seconded the proposal, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) confirmed, “We’re alive and well in East Clare too, could he open it up to the entire county and not just along the Wild Atlantic Way. We want to attract tourists to all the county”. Keating replied that the motion was for all of Clare, “we talk about sustainable tourism, park the car, get it charged and stay around for a day or two”.
“Charging points are crucial if we are to achieve our energy targets for 2030, I suggest we focus on fast charging points,” Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) commented. Cllr Shane Talty (FF) informed the meeting that the redevelopment of Sea World in Lahinch includes the provision of an electric car charging point “in the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way”.
