Galway County Council is inviting people to have their say on plans to upgrade visitor facilities at the Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre, located on the site of the most significant and bloodiest battle in Irish history.
The local authority is undertaking a feasibility study into the proposed upgrade of the existing interpretive centre, which commemorates the 1691 battle between the forces of William of Orange, James II and Louis XIV.
An estimated 35,000 soldiers from eight European nations took part in the conflict, which helped shape the course of European history.
Often referred to as “Ireland’s Gettysburg”, the Battle of Aughrim took place on 12 July 1691 during the closing stages of the Williamite-Jacobite War. It is estimated to have claimed around 5,000 lives, the highest loss of life in any single battle on Irish soil.
Galway County Council has engaged consultants to carry out a feasibility study into enhanced visitor facilities at the site, with the aim of transforming the centre into a sustainable, accessible and educational heritage attraction.
The project is being co-funded by the Government of Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund.
As part of the process, the consultants are seeking to engage with the local community and hear views on the proposed development.
A drop-in information session will take place at the centre on Wednesday, April 29 from 11am to 1pm.
Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, said the upgrade would enhance the visitor experience and support the local economy.
“Upgrading the visitor experience at this important heritage attraction will bring the Aughrim story to a wider national and international audience and will deliver a boost to the local economy in the East Galway area,” Cllr Collins said. “I urge local people and other stakeholders to come and meet the consultants at the centre on Wednesday, April 29.”
According to Liam Conneally, chief executive of Galway County Council, the project will significantly enhance the visitor experience.
“We are excited about enhancing the overall visitor experience at this important heritage attraction," Mr Conneally said. "With the support of key stakeholders, including the local community and elected members, our plan is to upgrade the interpretive centre and bring to life the story of one of the most important battlefields in this region.”
John Neary, Galway County Council tourism officer, said the development aligns with the county’s wider tourism strategy.
“Development plans for this important heritage attraction are in line with the County Galway Tourism Strategy 2023-2031, which contains a key focus on spreading the economic benefit of tourism across the wider county,” Mr Neary added. “The future upgrade of the visitor experience at the Battle of Aughrim Centre will create more reasons for domestic and international tourists to visit east Galway while also sustaining jobs, businesses and local communities.”
The Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre is located in the village of Aughrim, just off the N6 and Exit 15 on the M6 Dublin-Galway motorway. The centre is open to the public from May to September.
