012023 - Proposal for supply and installation of Visitor Counter Devices in multiple outdoor locations in the Ballyhoura Trails

Descriptions

Trails across the Ballyhoura area provide a recreational experience for thousands of people annually. Over the past 30 years, local trails have grown to become a critical part of the sense of place and way of life of the area. The trails are a significant driver of local social, environmental and economic activity and contribute positively to the physical, mental and spiritual health and well-being of residents and visitors. Trails across the Ballyhoura area provide a recreational experience for thousands of people annually. Over the past 30 years, local trails have grown to become a critical part of the sense of place and way of life of the area. The trails are a significant driver of local social, environmental and economic activity and contribute positively to the physical, mental and spiritual health and well-being of residents and visitors. The areas natural, cultural and built heritage environment underpin these health, social and economic benefits. Trail users include hikers, walkers, fitness groups, mindfulness groups, mountain bikers, trail runners, dogs, events, and more.  Recreational trail use has increased significantly over recent years fuelled by population growth, access and trail improvements, healthy lifestyles, access to affordable clothing and technology, and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased levels of use create new opportunities but also highlights challenges, including those related to trailhead access, parking and amenities, trail maintenance, natural areas protection, biodiversity and wildlife conflicts and more. Ballyhoura Heritage and Environment, the trail management body manage hundreds of kilometres of trails and over 20 loop walks in the Ballyhoura area and continuously strive to improve the local resident and visitor experience on and around these trails. In order to continue and improve on this work accurate and up to date usage data is required on a continual basis.