Outdoor water sports park proposed for Burnfoot

A new outdoor water sports park is set to be constructed in Inishowen, if planning permission is granted.

Water and Wildwood founder, Marie Wylie, has submitted an application to Donegal County Council seeking permission for the construction of an outdoor activity park, including areas for open water sports and eight overnight chalet accommodations, as well as tents and yurts at Gortcormacan, Burnfoot.

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The activity area would be located between Muff and Burnfoot, close to Barr’s Quarry.

If permission is granted, accommodation will be facilitated by the conversion of part of an existing agricultural shed to an administration building with office, kitchen and showering facilities, with connection to a new septic tank and reed bed and wetland secondary treatment system. There are also plans to upgrade an access road.

Currently, Water and Wildwood operates as a retreat space for private hire with self-catering accommodation on land with a private forest and lake.

Also in the application, it is outlined how the proposed development would respond to a growing demand for nature-based and outdoor activity tourism in County Donegal.

In the supporting statement the applicant stated: “With a rising interest in wellness retreats, eco-tourism and outdoor recreation, there is a clear need for facilities that offer immersive experiences in natural settings. Wild swimming and paddleboarding have gained popularity as low-impact, sustainable activities that attract a broad demographic, from families to adventure seekers.”

A decision on the application is expected in the middle of May. Any observations on the application can be made up until April 23.