Local and visiting motorhome users in Co Fermanagh have called on the local council to reverse its policy of not allowing overnight stays in public car parks in Enniskillen.
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council introduced signs in several car parks last year forbidding overnight stays for motorhomes in areas such as the Round O and Enniskillen Castle.
A social media post from the council last week reminding motorhome users of the rule sparked the ire of many from those in the local community as well as frequent visitors to the Co Fermanagh town, which has seen increasing tourism numbers in recent years.
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Many of those who own motorhomes believe the council is missing a valuable opportunity to charge those wishing to use the car parks, as well as depriving local hospitality and retail businesses in the town from increased custom.
The council has defended its approach, and its policy to recommended the use of private caravan sites which motorhome owners say are too expensive and not close enough to Enniskillen.
Alwyn Bloomer, a motorhomer from Co Armagh, said he was a frequent visitor to the area but won’t be returning due to the council’s attitude to the issue.
“Some councils don't understand the needs of motorhomers. We do not need the facilities provided at expensive caravan and camping sites,” Alwyn told Belfast Live.
“The sites which FODC recommend are out of town. These are not suitable for those who wish to socialise and visit the towns and villages and are depriving businesses of the revenue.
“With social media, word isn't long spreading about areas which are anti-motorhomes and they avoid them. If councils think they can force motorhomers into caravan sites they are mistaken. They will move on to where their business is appreciated.”
Enniskillen woman Laurine Lilley first started to use motorhomes during the coronavirus pandemic and believes the council is missing a trick.
“It’s only when you actually travel about in a motorhome that you really see what Fermanagh is lacking,” Laurine said.
“It is a gorgeous county to go travelling around, I can’t understand why we don’t make it as easy as possible for people to come here. They are leaving money behind them.”
In a statement, a spokesperson for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council said the issue of overnight stays has been discussed by councillors on multiple occasions, with local representatives agreeing to back the council's approach.
"Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has discussed the issue of overnight stays by motorhomes and caravans on Council car parks on several occasions over the last year (July & December 2022, Environmental Services Committee) and considered a number of reports in this regard," the spokesperson said.
"The Council recognises the unique tourism offering available throughout the District and the economic, social and cultural opportunities that visitors to the Fermanagh and Omagh area bring with them.
"The Council's agreed position is to work with the motorhome & caravanning community to raise awareness of the Council's approach (no overnight stays) and signpost visitors to one of the many licensed overnight stay facilities dotted throughout the District.
"The Council recognises the continued appeal of Fermanagh and Omagh as an attractive holiday destination for regional, national and international visitors and is committed to working in partnership with them, local businesses and our local communities to maximise tourism growth opportunities."
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