Newry & Kilkeel businesses successfully complete sustainability programme

Willowtree Glamping, Newry, the Green Holiday Cottages, Kilkeel and Hillyard House Hotel in Castlewellan were among a total of 15 businesses recognised for completing the programme, which aims to support the industry embrace sustainability practices to enhance their operations, accessibility and visitor engagement.

The 12-week initiative, which is delivered by The Tourism Space, guides businesses on a journey to become advocates for sustainable tourism experiences in the North. Participants take part in group sessions, online workshops, a field trip and one-on-one mentoring.

Throughout the programme, businesses work to develop and submit a detailed Sustainability Action Plan, outlining their commitment to sustainable practices.

The businesses who have been taking part in the programme gathered at Magheramorne Estate in Larne this week to make their final presentations, sharing their top three takeaways, their outstanding actions and the next steps they plan to take to enhance sustainability within their business.

The action plans not only support the businesses in their ongoing sustainability efforts but also contribute to their achievement of a Level 4 Certificate of Achievement in Sustainable Tourism Practice in Destinations from Ulster University.

Jessica Hoyle, Experience Brand Development Manager at Tourism NI, said: "It has been brilliant to hear the presentations from our participating industry.

“The purpose of the programme is to empower businesses to identify positive and realistic changes to become more accessible and sustainable, which is so important for the longevity of our industry and the businesses within it. We look forward to seeing the ongoing impact the programme will have."

Tina O’Dwyer, CEO of The Tourism Space, said: "It has been amazing to see how these tourism businesses have taken what they’ve learned and turned it into real actions.

“Their commitment to putting ideas into practice has been truly inspiring.

“One of the best parts of this programme has been seeing the businesses come together to share ideas and support each other. They’re not just working on their own sustainability goals, they are building a strong network which will help drive change across the tourism industry in Northern Ireland."