€1.4 million state-of-the-art water sports facility officially opens at Acres Lake, County Leitrim

On 9th October, 2026, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, officially opened the new €1.4 million Acres Lake Water Sports Facility in County Leitrim. Developed through Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Investment Scheme in partnership with Leitrim County Council, the facility is a best-in-class outdoor tourism amenity designed to enhance the visitor experience and serve as a central hub for water-based activities in the region.

This is one of up to 19 water sports facilities that will open across 13 counties through this scheme. With a total investment of €32 million, the scheme targeted projects with the greatest potential to grow tourism across Ireland and strategically enhance the national tourism offering. 

Aimed at elevating Leitrim’s appeal as an outdoor activity destination and extending the visitor season, this facility provides year-round access to high-quality amenities including hot and cold showers, changing areas, toilets, secure locker storage, and induction space. Accessibility and sustainability are central to the project, with features such as full wheelchair access, PV solar heating panels, and County Leitrim’s first Changing Places facility. 

An additional funding strand was introduced in 2025 to further enhance accessibility beyond the facility itself. This includes improved access routes between arrival points, the water sports facility and the waterfront, ensuring a seamless and inclusive experience for all users. 

Speaking at the opening, Minister Peter Burke TD said:

I’m pleased to officially open the new Acres Lake Water Sports Facility today. This investment by the Government, through Fáilte Ireland and delivered in partnership with Leitrim County Council, will significantly enhance the region’s outdoor activity offering. Acres Lake is already a much-loved amenity, attracting visitors to enjoy the Shannon Blueway and the stunning natural beauty of the area. This new facility will build on that appeal, encouraging even more people to experience the adventure and recreation opportunities that Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands have to offer.

It is an excellent example of how investment in outdoor recreation infrastructure can create lasting benefits for both tourism and local communities, supporting businesses, enhancing the visitor experience and providing high-quality amenities for residents. I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this investment programme across the country over the coming months, as further facilities are developed and opened under this initiative.

Cathaoirleach at Leitrim County Council, Cllr Mary Bohan said:

I am delighted to welcome Minister Peter Burke to County Leitrim for the opening of the new Water Investment Facility at Acres Lake. This investment will enhance the Shannon Blueway experience, support the growing demand for water-based activities, and further strengthen Leitrim's reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation and Slow Adventure Tourism. The facility represents another important step in unlocking the potential of our waterways, supporting local communities and businesses, and ensuring visitors can enjoy a high-quality experience in the heart of rural Ireland.

Paul Keeley, Director of Product and Regional Development at Fáilte Ireland, added: 

The opening of the Acres Lake Water Sports Facility is another welcome addition to Ireland’s outdoor tourism offering. Developed with Leitrim County Council, it enhances Acres Lake and the Shannon Blueway as great natural amenities, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy water-based activities in Leitrim and helping draw visitors to Ireland's Hidden Heartlands throughout the year.

Accessibility has been central to the design, with full wheelchair access and a Changing Places Toilet helping more people enjoy the water and the outdoors. With Government support, Fáilte Ireland is investing in experiences that give visitors more reasons to explore places like Drumshanbo and the surrounding area, stay longer and spend locally. That's good for visitors, good for local tourism businesses and good for communities across the region.

Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council, Joseph Gilhooly said: 

It is particularly exciting to see these outstanding new facilities officially open today at Acres Lake, located along the Shannon Blueway, one of Leitrim’s most treasured natural amenities. Since the development of the Blueway, the area has experienced significant growth, attracting new businesses and encouraging investment, and these new facilities will further enhance what is already a remarkable destination.

This project, made possible through the support of Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Programme, represents a significant investment in both the future of tourism in County Leitrim and the wellbeing of our local community. Acres Lake has long been a destination of choice for visitors from near and far, and these improvements will ensure it continues to be enjoyed in a sustainable, accessible and welcoming way for generations to come.

I am particularly proud to note that Acres Lake is one of just 19 locations nationwide to benefit from this programme. On behalf of Leitrim County Council, I would like to sincerely thank Fáilte Ireland, along with the design and construction teams, for their dedication and commitment to delivering this project. Together, we have enhanced not only the visitor experience but also Leitrim’s reputation as a leading destination for outdoor recreation and tourism.”

The new water sports facility will also become a hub for the local community, swim clubs, schools and visiting tour groups, while also serving walkers and cyclists using the Shannon Blueway.