2018 Visitor Observation Study Results

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING

OF THE

WILD ATLANTIC WAY OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME

for: Fáilte Ireland 88-95 Amiens Street Dublin 1

by: CAAS Ltd. 1st Floor 24-26 Ormond Quay Upper Dublin 7

November 2018 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Table of Contents

Section 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Monitoring Site Selection Rational ...... 2 Section 2 Methodology ...... 4 2.1 Guidelines for Undertaking Visitor Observation Survey ...... 4 2.2 Development of Activities, Effects and their Categories ...... 4 2.3 Visitor Movement Zones ...... 6 Section 3 Presentation and Analysis of Results ...... 7 3.1 Old Head of Kinsale ...... 9 3.2 Mizen Head ...... 17 3.3 Dursey Sound (Previously named Garnish Point) ...... 24 3.4 Blasket View ...... 31 3.5 Bray Head ...... 38 3.6 Cliffs of Moher ...... 45 3.7 Loop Head ...... 52 3.8 Killary Harbour ...... 60 3.9 Downpatrick Head ...... 68 3.10 Keem Strand ...... 75 3.11 Mullaghmore Head ...... 83 3.12 Sliabh Liag ...... 90 3.13 Fanad Head ...... 97 3.14 Malin Head ...... 104 Section 4 Collective Analysis of All Sites ...... 109 Section 5 Analysis of Results for all sites in 2018...... 118 5.1 General Analysis of Sites ...... 118 5.2 Site Based Evidence ...... 118 Section 6 Conclusions, Recommendations and Trends Observed ...... 119 6.1 Comparing 2015 to 2018 Results ...... 119 6.2 Recommendations ...... 123 6.3 Yearly Trends ...... 124

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Table of Figures

Figure 3.1 Duration of Time spent at the Old Head of Kinsale ...... 9 Figure 3.2 Use of Interpretive Material at Old Head of Kinsale ...... 10 Figure 3.3 Level of Activity Observed at Old Head of Kinsale ...... 10 Figure 3.4 Range of Activities Observed at Old Head of Kinsale ...... 11 Figure 3.5 Level of Impact Observed at Old Head of Kinsale ...... 12 Figure 3.6 Impacts Observed at Old Head of Kinsale ...... 13 Figure 3.7 Zones trafficked by visitors at Old Head of Kinsale ...... 14 Figure 3.8 Duration of time spent at Mizen Head...... 17 Figure 3.9 Use of Interpretive Material at Mizen Head ...... 18 Figure 3.10 Level of Activity Observed at Mizen Head ...... 18 Figure 3.11 Range of Activities Observed at Mizen Head ...... 19 Figure 3.12 Level of Impacts observed at Mizen Head ...... 20 Figure 3.13 Impacts Observed at Mizen Head ...... 20 Figure 3.14 Zones trafficked by visitors at Mizen Head ...... 21 Figure 3.15 Duration Spent at Dursey Sound ...... 24 Figure 3.16 Use of Interpretive Material at Dursey Sound ...... 25 Figure 3.17 Level of Activity Observed at Dursey Sound ...... 25 Figure 3.18 Range of Activities Observed at Dursey Sound ...... 26 Figure 3.19 Level of Impact Observed at Dursey Sound ...... 27 Figure 3.20 Impacts Observed at Dursey Sound ...... 27 Figure 3.21 Zones trafficked by visitors at Dursey Sound ...... 28 Figure 3.22 Duration Spent at Blasket View ...... 31 Figure 3.23 Use of interpretation material at Blasket View ...... 32 Figure 3.24 Level of Activity Observed Blasket View ...... 32 Figure 3.25 Range of Activities Observed at Blasket View ...... 33 Figure 3.26 Level of Impacts observed at Blasket View ...... 34 Figure 3.27 Range of Effects Observed at Blasket View ...... 34 Figure 3.28 Zones trafficked by visitors at Blasket View ...... 35 Figure 3.29 Duration Spent at Bray Head ...... 38 Figure 3.30 Use of Interpretive Material at Bray Head ...... 39 Figure 3.31 Level of Activity Observed at Bray Head...... 39 Figure 3.32 Range of Activities Observed at Bray Head...... 40 Figure 3.33 Level of Impact Observed at Bray Head ...... 41 Figure 3.34 Range of Effects Observed at Bray Head ...... 41 Figure 3.35 Zones trafficked by visitors at Bray Head ...... 42 Figure 3.36 Duration Spent at Cliffs of Moher ...... 45 Figure 3.37 Use of Interpretive Material at Cliffs of Moher ...... 46 Figure 3.38 Level of Activity Observed Cliffs of Moher ...... 46 Figure 3.39 Range of Activities Observed Cliffs of Moher ...... 47 Figure 3.40 Level of Impact Observed Cliffs of Moher ...... 48 Figure 3.41 Impacts Observed Cliffs of Moher ...... 48 Figure 3.42 Zones trafficked by visitors Cliffs of Moher ...... 49 Figure 3.43 Duration Spent at Loop Head ...... 52 Figure 3.44 Use of Interpretive Material at Loop Head ...... 53 Figure 3.45 Level of Activity Observed at Loop Head ...... 53 Figure 3.46 Range of Activities Observed at Loop Hea ...... 54 Figure 3.47 Level of Impact Observed at Loop Head ...... 55 Figure 3.48 Impacts Observed at Loop Head ...... 56 Figure 3.49 Zones trafficked by visitors at Loop Head ...... 57 Figure 3.50 Duration Spent at Killary Harbour ...... 60

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Figure 3.51 Use of Interpretive Material at Killary Harbour ...... 61 Figure 3.52 Level of Activity Observed at Killary Harbour ...... 61 Figure 3.53 Range of Activities Observed at Killary Harbour ...... 62 Figure 3.54 Level of Impact Observed at Killary Harbour ...... 63 Figure 3.55 Impacts Observed at Killary Harbour ...... 64 Figure 3.56 Zones trafficked by visitors at Killary Harbour ...... 65 Figure 3.64 Duration Spent at Downpatrick Head ...... 68 Figure 3.65 Use of Interpretive Material at Downpatrick Head ...... 69 Figure 3.66 Level of Activity Observed at Downpatrick Head ...... 69 Figure 3.67 Range of Activities Observed at Downpatrick Head ...... 70 Figure 3.68 Level of Impact Observed at Downpatrick Head ...... 71 Figure 3.69 Impacts Observed at Downpatrick Head ...... 71 Figure 3.70 Zones trafficked by visitors at Downpatrick Head...... 72 Figure 3.71 Duration Spent at Keem Strand ...... 75 Figure 3.72 Use of Interpretive signs at Keem Strand ...... 76 Figure 3.73 Level of Activity Observed at Keem Strand ...... 76 Figure 3.74 Range of Activities Observed at Keem Strand ...... 77 Figure 3.75 Level of Impact Observed at Keem Strand ...... 78 Figure 3.76 Impacts Observed at Keem Strand ...... 79 Figure 3.77 Zones trafficked by visitors at Keem Strand ...... 80 Figure 3.78 Duration Spent at Mullaghmore Head ...... 83 Figure 3.79 Use of Interpretive Material at Mullaghmore Head ...... 84 Figure 3.80 Level of Activity Observed at Mullaghmore Head ...... 84 Figure 3.81 Range of Activities Observed at Mullaghmore Head ...... 85 Figure 3.82 Level of Effects Observed at Mullaghmore Head ...... 86 Figure 3.83 Range of Effects Observed at Mullaghmore Head ...... 86 Figure 3.84 Zones trafficked by visitors at Mullaghmore Head ...... 87 Figure 3.85 Duration Spent at Sliabh Liag ...... 90 Figure 3.86 Use of Interpretive Material at Sliabh Liag ...... 91 Figure 3.87 Level of Activity Observed at Sliabh Liag ...... 91 Figure 3.88 Range of Activities Observed at Sliabh Liag ...... 92 Figure 3.89 Level of Impact Observed at Sliabh Liag ...... 93 Figure 3.90 Impacts Observed at Sliabh Liag ...... 93 Figure 3.91 Zones trafficked by visitors at Sliabh Liag...... 94 Figure 3.92 Duration Spent at Fanad Head ...... 97 Figure 3.93 Use of Interpretive Material at Fanad Head ...... 98 Figure 3.94 Level of Activity Observed at Fanad Head ...... 98 Figure 3.95 Range of Activity Observed at Fanad Head...... 99 Figure 3.96 Level of Impact Observed at Fanad Head ...... 99 Figure 3.97 Impacts Observed at Fanad Head ...... 100 Figure 3.98 Visitor Traffic by Zone at Fanad Head ...... 101 Figure 3.99 Duration Spent at Malin Head ...... 104 Figure 3.100 Use if Interpretive Materials at Malin Head ...... 105 Figure 3.101 Level of Activity Observed at Malin Head ...... 105 Figure 3.102 Range of Activities Observed at Malin Head ...... 106 Figure 3.103 Level of Impact Observed at Malin Head ...... 106 Figure 3.104 Impacts Observed at Malin Head...... 107 Figure 3.105 Zones trafficked by visitors at Malin Head ...... 107 Figure 4.1 No. of People and Analysis of Average Duration Spent on Each site ...... 110 Figure 4.2 Mode of Transport used to reach Discovery Sites ...... 111 Figure 4.3 Overall Level of Activity Recorded across all sites ...... 111 Figure 4.4 Level of Activity Observed across all sites ...... 112 Figure 4.5 Range of Activities Recorded across all site ...... 113

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Figure 4.6 Overall level of Impact Observed Across All Site ...... 114 Figure 4.7 Level of Impact Observed of Impacts Observed across all sites ...... 115 Figure 4.8 Range of Impacts Observed across all sites ...... 116 Figure 4.9 Zones trafficked by visitors across all sites ...... 117 Figure 6.1 Level of Impact Observed from 2015-2018 ...... 120

List of Tables

Table 1.1 Observation Study sites including Natura 2000 Data and I-WeBs Data ...... 3 Table 2.1 Description of the activity levels and codes used for the catagorising ...... 4 Table 2.2 Description of effect levels and codes used for catagorising ...... 5 Table 3.1 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 14 Table 3.2 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 21 Table 3.3 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 28 Table 3.4 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 35 Table 3.5 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 42 Table 3.6 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 49 Table 3.7 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 57 Table 3.8 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions...... 65 Table 3.10 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions ...... 72 Table 3.11 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions ...... 80 Table 3.12 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions ...... 87 Table 3.13 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions ...... 94 Table 3.14 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions ...... 101 Table 3.15 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions ...... 108 Table 6.1 Visitor Observation Analysis Summary; detailed per site for 2015 and 2018 ...... 121

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Section 1 Introduction

1.1 Background This report is one of a suite of reports which comprise the 2018 Wild Atlantic Way (WAW) environmental surveying and monitoring program. This suite of reports includes the following: • The macro monitoring results; • The visitor observation study results; • The ecological study of visitor movement areas; and • The further monitoring report.

These assessments are being undertaken as part of the obligations set out in the SEA and AA reports of the WAW operational program. The data collected aims to characterise the interactions between tourism and key environmental metrics along the WAW. This includes characterisation of typical activities and effects from individual tourists to broad scale effects such as waste water management.

These assessments are undertaken annually and the scope of works being undertaken is reviewed by the environmental working group which meets twice a year to discuss the monitoring program. The working group consists of stakeholders such as local authority representatives as well as representatives from agencies such as the EPA and NPWS.

The monitoring is intended to be a high level snap shot of the existing condition of sites along the WAW to inform the strategic planning of the WAW.

1.2 Introduction This document details the results of the 2018 Visitor Observation Study carried out as part of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring for the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW) Operational Programme. It has been undertaken by CAAS Ltd. on behalf of Fáilte Ireland.

The purpose of the monitoring strategy is to: • Ensure that the effects of the implementation of the Operational Programme are understood and acted upon; and • To ensure that there will be no delays in identifying existing or emerging activities that could threaten the environment. • To ensure that any remedial actions or recommendations undertaken because of this monitoring report are to be competes in compliance with the Habitats Directive.

The Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW is intended to describe the existing conditions of sites with a view to: • Contributing to Visitor Management Strategies; • Contributing to future editions of Fáilte Ireland’s WAW Operational Programmes and Guidelines; • Identifying remedial action/works required; • Assessing the capacity for future loadings; and • Integrating site management with future European site Management Plans.

There are three separate components to the Monitoring Strategy: 1. The Macro Monitoring examines the state of the environment at gateway settlements on the Wild Atlantic Way looking at large scale regional and national indicators to help develop baseline data.

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

2. The Visitor Observation Monitoring (this report) forms the second stage, examining the types, spatial patterns and intensity of existing visitor activities at 15 Discovery Points. The site selection process varies each year and is informed by the members of the WAW Monitoring Committee (See Section 1.1); and 3. The Ecological Surveys are informed by the Visitor Monitoring results and examine the areas receiving maximum, moderate, minimum and no loading. A focus is placed on floras species, habitat features and overall system functionality. Regard is given to specific conservation objectives of relevant European sites.

1.3 Monitoring Site Selection Rational Each year the rational for sites Selection is based on relevant input from members of the WAW Monitoring Committee: • 2015: ‘Signature Discovery Points’ were selected to be monitored as these was the flagship sites of the WAW brand1. These sites were expected to receive the largest number of visitors per year; • 2016: Beaches and islands- focus on sites with potential for disperse impacts was required; • 2017: Avian species as indicator species for ecological integrity. Attention was placed on Estuarine sites which have complex ecological processes present as well as sites within or adjacent to SPAs (SPAs); and • 2018: Revisit ‘Signature Discovery Points’ which were previously monitored in 2015. The rational for this was to identify if any changes had arisen from the original survey from the first year of monitoring and to present.

1 Note that in 2015 the site referred to as Derrigimlagh Signature Discovery Point was monitored, however on review it has been discovered that this site is not the Derrighimalagh Discovery Point but a site further west at Alcock and Browne memorial. As a result, 14 signature discovery points are presented in this report. Derrigimlagh Signature Discovery Point will be monitored in 2019.

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Table 1.1 Observation Study sites including European site Data and I-WeBs Data Discovery Name County GPS Survey Relevant SAC Distance Relevant SPA Distance Point Coordinate Date (km) (km) Number (2018) 5 Malin Head Donegal 55.381018- 12th & 13th North Inishowen Coast Within Malin Head SPA 3.5 7.3738003 of July 13 Cionn Fhánada Donegal 55.275617- 14th & 15th Ballyhoorisky Point To Fanad 0.06 Horn Head to Fanad Head SPA Within (Fanad Head) 7.6345941 of July Head

30 Sliabh Liag Donegal 54.627438- 5th & 6th of Slieve League Within West Donegal Coast SPA Within (Slieve League) 8.6847138 July

37 Mullaghmore Sligo 54.470555- 7th & 8th of Bunduff Lough and Within Donegal Bay SPA 15 Head 8.4630775 July Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore 47 Downpatrick Mayo 54.322906- 28th & 29th Glenamoy Bog Complex 10 Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SPA 12 Head 9.3459186 of June

65 Keem Strand Mayo 53.967177- 30th of Croaghaun Slievemore Within Bill's Rock 17 10.195409 June & 1st of July 75 Killary Harbour Galway 53.595759- 21st & 22nd Maumturk Mountains 0.02 Illaunonearaun SPA 24 9.7645229 of June 101 Cliffs of Moher Clare 52.971639- 14th & 15th Blackhead/Poulsallagh Complex 8 Cliffs of Moher SPA 0.02 9.4260442 of June

109 Loop Head Clare 52.560901- 16th & 17th Loop Head Within Loop Head SPA 0.1 9.9304605 of June

124 Radharc na Kerry 52.104973- 7th & 8th of Blasket Islands 0.05 Dingle Peninsula SPA Within Mblascaoidi 10.455488 June (Blaskets View)

129 Bray Head Kerry 51.891958- 9th & 10th Valencia Harbour/Portmagee 0.2 Iveragh Peninsula SPA Within 10.396685 of June Channel

139 Dursey Sound Cork 51.607717- 3rd & 4th of Kenmare River 0.06 Beara Peninsula Within 10.158341 June

149 Mizen Head Cork 51.451562- 1st & 2nd of Three Castle Head To Mizen Within Sheep's Head to Toe Head SPA Within 9.8109117 June Head 159 Old Head of Cork 51.619701- 30th & 31st Courtmacsherry Estuary 15 Old Head of Kinsale SPA 0.05 Kinsale 8.542146 of June

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Section 2 Methodology

The Visitor Observation Survey methodology allows for the examination of patterns of visitor behaviour at sites along the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW).

Visitor Observation Survey: • Tool used to collect systematic data about visitor behaviour at a site of interest.

Methodology: • Watching and collecting information on how visitors interact with the site, as well as studying activities and flows of movement

Aim: • To collect evidence of stay duration, activities undertaken, locations and direction of excursions from vehicles. Methodology is reinforced using an evidence-based model to identify the current state of the site and existing contributions before establishing the behaviour of visitors and the likely nature of impacts.

Effective methods for visitor observation have been designed and tested using Pilot Visitor Observation Studies at the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in Co. Clare. The studies were carried across a full spectrum of types of circumstances that range from small spatially-concentrated areas to large diffuse sites. The study sites had a range of existing management regimes that ranged from those that are complex and highly structured, private enterprises to the simpler smaller sites.

The method had a simple, replicable template that allowed easy identification patterns of visitor activity, movement and behaviour using a standardised visitor observation and tracking methodology for a range of types. The sites chosen for monitoring in 2018 are fifteen Discovery Points along the WAW. The Discovery Points ranged from having complex and highly structured existing management regimes to existing roadside laybys with little or no management.

2.1 Guidelines for Undertaking Visitor Observation Survey The recommended time of year to undertake visitor observational surveys is from the beginning of tourist season to the end of July to allow enough time for undertaking of subsequent ecological surveys. Preparation of survey materials and site visits should be undertaken well in advance to increase efficiency of the monitoring programme during the tourist season.

A detailed outline of the methodology used can be found in Appendix I-III.

2.2 Development of Activities, Effects and their Categories2 A list of general activities and effects was developed to assist in the categorisation of visitor behaviour. While generic to all sites, the list is non-exhaustive and can be expanded depending on the individual site or emerging trends. Activities and effects are categorised depending on their severity to guide accurate reporting in an effective, efficient and easily replicated manner (see Table 2.1 and Table 2.2).

Table 2.1 Description of the activity levels and codes used for the catagorising Category 1 Low Level Activities Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces LA1 Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand LA2 Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand LA3 Swimming, sailing, surfing, kayaking in water LA4

2 This classification system is specific to the visitor monitoring programme and any reference to effects or impacts within this report does not relate to similar terms within the Habitats Directive but to general activities and associated environmental effects as detailed in Appendix III of the Visitor monitoring report.

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Resting reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing LA5 Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas LA6 Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas LA7 Category 2 Medium Level Activities Powered movement through water MA1 Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path MA2 Any movement leaving a trail through leafy vegetation MA3 Any movement leaving a trail through woody vegetation MA4 Climbing on walls, loose stones, sand, soil etc. MA5 Fishing MA6 Category 3 High-level Activities Walking through wets/muddy soil HA1 Scrambling on steep or loose slopes HA2 Off road vehicular movement HA3 Disturbance of wildlife HA4 Deliberate building or moving or knocking site materials – parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand etc. HA5 Picking herbaceous vegetation HA6

Table 2.2 Description of effect levels and codes used for catagorising Category 1 Low Impact Effects No identifiable effect LIE1 Desire Lines or Trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation LIE2 Temporary disturbance (including chasing and feeding) of insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals LIE3 Temporary change of character – due to the appearance or nature of activities (noise, crowds etc.) LIE4 General/light littering LIE5 Category 2 Medium Impact Effects Desire lines or tracks visible outside of existing trail or marked path MIE1 Trampling of herbaceous vegetation MIE2 Damage to woody vegetation MIE3 Incidentally moving or knocking site materials – parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, MIE4 fauna etc Addition/alteration of site features, transient emissions, noise MIE5 Transient disturbance, emissions, noise MIE6 Disturbance to wildlife MIE7 Category 3 High Severe Impact Effects Direct interference with site material – parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc SIE1 Removal of materials - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc SIE2 Vandalism or graffiti SIE3 Destruction of Structures, vegetation or fauna SIE4 Heavy littering or dumping quantities of waste SIE5 Burning materials or lighting a fire SIE6 Injuring, killing or taking wildlife SIE7

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

2.3 Visitor Movement Zones

The collation of the data including the tracking of onsite movement by visitors will result in the identification of core, secondary and tertiary movement zones. The initial sites chosen for monitoring are the fifteen candidate Signature Discovery Points along the Wild Atlantic Way.

The candidate Signature Discovery Points range from having complex and highly structured existing management regimes to existing roadside laybys with little or no management.

Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Core Zone managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Secondary managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some cases Zone farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed Tertiary Zone grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

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2018 Visitor Observation Study Results of the Environmental Surveying and Monitoring of the WAW

Section 3 Presentation and Analysis of Results

This section of the report is an account of the site visits to each of the Discovery Points selected for 2018. The surveys were carried out from a period between the 28th of May and the 15th of July 2018. For optimum results each site was surveyed at the same time on each survey day, each site was surveyed over a two- day period. Surveyors were on site at 08.30 and concluded observations at 17.30, spending a duration of approximately 9 hours at each site. Appendix IV and Appendix V contains a breakdown of results from each site and photographs of each Discovery Points monitored.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 7 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Old Head of Kinsale

Old Head of Kinsale

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

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3.1 Old Head of Kinsale

Site Name: Old Head of Kinsale Date Surveyed: 30th – 31st May County: Cork Landscape Type: Rocky Shore/peat/grassland in peninsular coastal context No. of Visitors: 547 Average Duration spent on site: 00:20:00 Site Description: Old Head of Kinsale is a headland situated south of the town of Kinsale in Co. Cork. It is located adjacent to the Old Head of Kinsale SPA. The site is designated as an SPA for the protection of endangered species of birds listed in the Birds Directive (Council Directive 2009/147/EC). Old Head of Kinsale is privately owned with an onsite golf links and accommodation. The golf links and the lighthouse are inaccessible to visitors. The Signature Discovery Point constitutes a carpark located south of the Old Head Signal Tower which allows access to trails and walkways along the clifftop of the publicly accessible headland. The site is of historical interest as the RMS Lusitania sank off the coast of Old Head in the early 20th Century. The Old Head Signal Tower has been refurbished and was opened in May 2015. It has a car park and is free for visitors to enter. The Old Head Signal Tower site consists of road access, parking for 18 cars and 2 buses, a flag and ball signalling system with a mast 15 metres high, and the signal tower which is open to visitors.

Upgrades to Site: Proposed works to the site in 2015 included a Lusitania memorial garden. Since the previous survey works have been completed, this development is located within the site boundary and is a big attraction for toursits.

Duration of Time Spent at the Old Head of Kinsale 2:52:48

2:24:00

1:55:12

1:26:24

Time Time Spent 0:57:36

0:28:48

0:00:00

1 5 9

13 17 21 25 29 33 37 41 45 49 53 57 61 65 69 73 77 81 85 89 93 97

101 105 109 113 117 121 125 129 133 137 141 145 149 153 157 161 165 169 173 177 181 185 No. of Groups

Figure 3.1 Duration of Time spent at the Old Head of Kinsale

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Use of Interpretive Material at the Old Head of Kinsale

37%

Yes No

63%

Figure 3.2 Use of Interpretive Material at Old Head of Kinsale

Level of Activity Observed at Old Head of Kinsale

600 560

Low Level Activity 500 Medium Level Activity

400 High Level Activity

300

200 No. No. of Observations

100

12 20 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity

Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.3 Level of Activity Observed at Old Head of Kinsale

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Activites Observed at Old Head of Kinsale 2% 2% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails 4% or hard surfaces

Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas 15% 35% Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand 20%

Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand 22%

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path

Figure 3.4 Range of Activities Observed at Old Head of Kinsale

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Level of Effect Observed at Old Head of Kinsale

250 227 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect

200

High Level Effect

150

100 No. No. of Observations

50 43

2 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect

Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.5 Level of Impact Observed at Old Head of Kinsale

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Effects Observed at Old Head of Kinsale 1%

No identifiable effect 7%

8% Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation 1%

4% Temporary change of character - due to the appearance or nature of activities (noise, crowds, etc.)

10% General/light littering

Desire lines or tracks visible outside of existing trail or marked path 69%

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

Incidentally moving or knocking site materials - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Figure 3.6 Impacts Observed at Old Head of Kinsale

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Table 3.1 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Old Head of Kinsale 400 380

350 Core Secondary 300

250

200 178

150

100

50

0 Core Secondary Figure 3.7 Zones trafficked by visitors at Old Head of Kinsale

3.1.1 Recommendations and Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns

Visitors at the Old Head of Kinsale trafficked the Core zone 380 times and the Secondary zone 178 times. Less than 32% of all visitor movements observed were within the secondary zone.

70% of visitors resulted in no identifiable effect on the site. Good visitor management is in place at Old head which contributes towards good visitor behaviour, in turn results in fewer effects.

12% of visitors had medium level impacts on the site. This resulted from visitors leaving paved areas walking through long grass leaving desire lines; visitors were also observed to throw litter while taking photographs. There were few incidences of High-level impacts recorded, 0.9% accounted for high-level effects caused by one child throwing stones.

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Image 3.1 Visitor Movement Zones at Old Head of Kinsale

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Mizen Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

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3.2 Mizen Head

Site Name: Mizen Head Date Surveyed: 1st & 2nd June 2018 County: Cork Landscape Type: Rocky Shore/peat/grassland in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 967 Average Duration of visitors on site: 1:22:40 Site Description: Located just 8km from Goleen, Mizen Head is a spellbinding place. As Ireland’s most south-westerly point, it is home to a signal station that was built to save lives off the rocky shoreline. It was completed in 1910 and later became the home of Ireland’s very first radio beacon in 1931. Here, inside the Keeper’s House, you’ll find a dynamic visitor centre that contains a café and gift shop. It also has a navigation aids simulator, displays the geology of the region, tells the story of Marconi in Crookhaven and discusses the lighthouse keepers’ hobbies. Once your tour of the visitor centre is complete, head outside and follow the path down the famous 99 steps and over the arched bridge that looks down upon the gorge. This route will take you to the signal station, which is open to the public. Along the way, there is stunning scenery to be admired, with the possibility of spotting seals, kittiwakes, gannets and choughs, not to mention minke, fin and humpback wales.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades to Mizen Head Discovery Point since 2015

Duration of Time Spent at Mizen Head 6:00:00

4:48:00

3:36:00

2:24:00 Time Time Spent 1:12:00

0:00:00

1 7

13 19 25 31 37 43 49 55 61 67 73 79 85 91 97

103 109 115 121 127 133 139 145 151 157 163 169 175 181 187 193 199 205 211 217 223 229 235 241 247

No.of Groups

Figure 3.8 Duration of time spent at Mizen Head3

3 This graph represents 276 of the 367 groups observed during the survey. 91 groups were not recorded to have a departure time.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 17 2018 Visitor Observation Study Mizen Head

Use of Interpretive Material at Mizen Head

38%

YES NO

62%

Figure 3.9 Use of Interpretive Material at Mizen Head

Level of Activity Observed at Mizen Head 1000 903 900 Low Level 800 Medium Level 700 High Level 600

500

400

No. No. of Observations 300

200

100 3 2 0 Low Level Medium Level High Level Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.10 Level of Activity Observed at Mizen Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 18 2018 Visitor Observation Study Mizen Head

Activities Observed at Mizen Head

2% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces 5%

Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools 15% and intertidal areas 35%

Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas 19%

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand

24%

Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand

Figure 3.11 Range of Activities Observed at Mizen Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 19 2018 Visitor Observation Study Mizen Head

Level of Effect Observed at Mizen Head

350 330

300 Low Level Medium Level 250

200

150

No. No. of Observations 100

50 5 0 Low Level Medium Level Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.12 Level of Impacts observed at Mizen Head

2% 1% 1% Effects Observed at Mizen Head 1%

No identifiable effect

General/light littering

Addition/alteration of site features, transient emissions, noise

Transient disturbance, emissions, noise 95%

Disturbance of wildlife

Figure 3.13 Impacts Observed at Mizen Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 20 2018 Visitor Observation Study Mizen Head

Table 3.2 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, Core Zone tracks and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Mizen Head 400 366

350

Core Zone 300

250

200

150

100

50

0 Core Zone

Figure 3.14 Zones trafficked by visitors at Mizen Head

3.2.1 Recommendations and Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns The Core zone at Mizen head was the predominant area trafficked by visitors during the site visit (366 times).

95% of visitors had no identifiable effect on the site. 5% of visitors were observed to have medium level effects on the site. This resulted from a group entering a private field to pick a large quantity of flowers. One visitor was also observed to fly a drone close to the cliff side, disturbing nesting birds.

It is apparent that the high-level of management at the site contributes towards good visitor behavior which resulted in fewer effects.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 21 2018 Visitor Observation Study Mizen Head

Image 3.2 Visitor Movement Zones at Mizen Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 22 2018 Visitor Observation Study Dursey Sound

Dursey Sound

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 23 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Dursey Sound

3.3 Dursey Sound (Previously named Garnish Point)

Site Name: Dursey Sound (Control site) Date Surveyed: 3rd & 4th June County: Cork Landscape Type: Rocky Shore/Peat/grassland in a peninsular context Total no. of People: 289 Average Duration of visitors on site: 00:20:43

Site Description: Dursey Sound discovery point is located opposite the famous Dursey Sound; it is situated about 35 metres above sea level. Dursey Island is separated from the mainland by a narrow sound known for its strong tides. Dursey Island is accessed by Irelands only cable car, it runs about 250m above sea level. There is a car park, ticket office and toilet facilities at this point, as well as interpretative signs. Dursey Sound is located within the Kenmare River SAC and the Beara Peninsula SPA. The site is an SAC for several habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the Habitats Directive.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Dursey Sound Discovery Point since 2015.

Duration of Time Spent at Dursey Sound 7:12:00

6:00:00

4:48:00

3:36:00

Time Time Spent 2:24:00

1:12:00

0:00:00 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53 55 57 59 61 63 65 67 69 71 73 75 77 79 81 83 85 87 89

No. of Groups

Figure 3.15 Duration Spent at Dursey Sound4

4 The graph represents 91 of the 136 groups observed of which 69 groups remained on site for less than 20 minutes; 45 of the groups observed had no departure time recorded.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 24 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Dursey Sound

Use of Interpretive Material at Dursey Sound

32%

Yes No

68%

Figure 3.16 Use of Interpretive Material at Dursey Sound

Level of Activity Observed at Dursey Sound 300 257 250

200

150

100 No. No. of Observations

50 15 1 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.17 Level of Activity Observed at Dursey Sound

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 25 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Dursey Sound

Activities Observed at Dursey Island 1% 1% 3% 2% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces

10% Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland 34% or level sand Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand

Swimming, sailing, surfing, kayaking in water 19%

Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Watching nature in hedges, woods, 30% streams, pools and intertidal areas

Powered movement through water

Figure 3.18 Range of Activities Observed at Dursey Sound

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 26

2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Dursey Sound

Level of Effect Observed at Dursey Sound 120

100 96

80

60

40

No. No. of Obervations 31

20

1 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.19 Level of Impact Observed at Dursey Sound

Effects Observed at Dursey Sound

No identifiable effect 5% 6%

Desire lines or trails visible on 14% grass and leafy vegetation

Desire lines or tracks visible 53% outside of existing trail or marked path

22% Transient disturbance, emissions, noise

Addition/alteration of site features, transient emissions, noise

Figure 3.20 Impacts Observed at Dursey Sound

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 27 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Dursey Sound

Table 3.3 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Core Zone managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Secondary managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some cases Zone farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed Tertiary Zone grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Dursey Island 250 231

Core Zone Secondary Zone 200 Tertiary Zone

150

100

50 37

15

0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Tertiary Zone Figure 3.21 Zones trafficked by visitors at Dursey Sound

3.3.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns Visitor movements were recorded in the Core, Secondary and Tertiary zones at Dursey Sound. The core zone was the predominant area (231 times; over 81% of observed movement), the secondary zone was moved through 37 times resulting from groups going off the main walking trail. The tertiary zone recorded movement 15 times; this came from water-based activities.

52% of visitors had no identifiable effect to the site. 46% had a medium impact. These visitors left the car park to walk through areas where desire lines were evident in the vegetation. Most visitors that left marked trails did so to go to the cliff edge.

1% accounted for high-level effects which came from one visitor fishing.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 28 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Dursey Sound

Image 3.3 Visitor Movement Zones at Dursey Sound

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 29 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

Blasket View

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 30 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

3.4 Blasket View

Site Name: Blasket View Date Surveyed: 7th – 8th June 2018 County: Kerry Landscape Type: Rocky Shore/grassland in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 1385 Average Duration of visitors on site: 0:08:15

Site Description: Blaskets View is a layby located along the Slea Head Drive in the Dingle Peninsula in Co. Kerry. There is a clear view of the Blasket Islands from the site. It is located adjacent to the Blasket Islands SAC. The site is a designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The lay-by experiences a high volume of traffic. The layby has two additional lower tiers below the road.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Blasket View Discovery Point since 2015.

Duration of Time spent at Blasket View 0:28:48 0:25:55 0:23:02 0:20:10 0:17:17 0:14:24

0:11:31 Time Spent 0:08:38 0:05:46 0:02:53

0:00:00

1 4 7

10 13 16 19 22 25 28 31 34 37 40 43 46 49 52 55 58 61 64 67 70 73 76 79 82 85 88 91 94 97

100 103 106 109 112 115 118 121 124 127 No. of Groups

Figure 3.22 Duration Spent at Blasket View 5

5 This graph represents 127 of the 243 groups observed. 116 groups did not have a departure time recorded; however, these are assumed to fall within a normal distribution curve

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 31 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

Use of Interpretive Material at Blasket View

31%

Yes No

69%

Figure 3.23 Use of interpretation material at Blasket View

Level of Activity Observed on Site 900 828 800 Low Level Activity 700 Medium Level Activity 600

500

400

300

200

100 12 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity Figure 3.24 Level of Activity Observed Blasket View

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 32 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

Activities Observed at Blasket View

Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces Resting, reading, looking, 15% picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

27% Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand

27% 2% 2% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

27% Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas

Figure 3.25 Range of Activities Observed at Blasket View

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 33 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

Level of Effect Observed at Blasket View 250 227 Low Level Effect 200 Medium Level Effect High Level Effect 150

100 No. No. of Observations 50

2 3 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.26 Level of Impacts observed at Blasket View

Effects Observed at Blasket View

1%

No identifiable effect

Direct interference with site material - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

99%

Figure 3.27 Range of Effects Observed at Blasket View

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 34 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

Table 3.4 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Blasket View 300

259 250 Core Zone Secondary Zone

200

150

100

50

1 0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Figure 3.28 Zones trafficked by visitors at Blasket View

3.4.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns The Core Zone was the trafficked by visitors at Blasket View (259 times), while the Secondary Zone was only trafficked once.

97% of visitors to Blasket View had no identifiable effect to the site. Overall no impacts where observed.

This is a well-managed site with visitors being aware of sensitivities in the area.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 35 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Blasket View

Image 3.4 Visitor Movement Zones at Blasket View

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 36 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

Bray Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 37 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

3.5 Bray Head Site Name: Bray Head Date Surveyed: 9th & 10th June County: Kerry Landscape Type: Rocky Shore/Peat/grassland in a coastal plain context Total no. of People: 415 Average Duration of visitors on site: 01:00:00 Site Description: Bray Head is located at the most south-westerly point of Valentia Island, Co. Kerry. A trail leads to a signal tower at the summit and overlooks Portmagee Harbour and the Skellig Islands. There is also evidence of beehive huts near the summit which are of archaeological interest. The site is grazed by sheep. Bray Head is located adjacent to the Valencia Harbour/Portmagee Channel SAC. The site is designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site comprises of a car park at the bottom of Bray Head and a pathway which forms a trail to the signal tower. The car park has been redeveloped in recent years and is privately owned. There is a fee of €2 for parking.

Upgrades to Site: There has been a new car park constructed along with picnic tables since the 2015 survey.

Duration of Time Spent at Bray Head 1:40:48

1:26:24

1:12:00

0:57:36

0:43:12

Time Time Spent 0:28:48

0:14:24

0:00:00 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49

No. of Groups Figure 3.29 Duration Spent at Bray Head6

6 This graph represents 50 of the 169 groups observed due to a low yield of departure times due to the nature of the site.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 38 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

Use of Interpretive Material at Bray Head

26%

Yes No

74%

Figure 3.30 Use of Interpretive Material at Bray Head

Level of Activity Observed at Bray Head

600

504 Low Level Activity 500 Medium Level Activity

High Level Activity 400

300

No. No. of Observations 200

100

1 2 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.31 Level of Activity Observed at Bray Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 39 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

Activities Observed at Bray Head

1%

11% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

33% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces

23% Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas

Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Walking, running, cycling or playing in 32% mown grass, managed grassland or level sand

Figure 3.32 Range of Activities Observed at Bray Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 40 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

Level of Effect Observed at Bray Head 200 178 180 Low Level Effect 160 Medium Level Effect 140 High Level Effect 120 100 80

No. No. of Observations 60 40 20 2 3 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect

Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.33 Level of Impact Observed at Bray Head

1% Effects Observed at Bray Head 1% No Identifiable effect

Removal of materials- parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Addition/alteration of site 98% features, transient emissions, noise

Figure 3.34 Range of Effects Observed at Bray Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 41 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

Table 3.5 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some cases Secondary Zone farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Bray Head 250

199 200 Core Zone Secondary Zone

150

100

50

1 0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Figure 3.35 Zones trafficked by visitors at Bray Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 42 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Bray Head

3.5.1 Recommendations and Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns 98% of visitors had no identifiable effect to the site. Visitor management at this site was good which resulted in less effects.

1% of all visitors where observed to have a high-level effect, this was a result of a child throwing a stone.

The core zone of Bray Head was trafficked 199 times; 99.5% of the visitor movements observed remained within the marked paths and trials; this resulted in the secondary zone being trafficked only once by a group returning to the car park through the grassland area.

Image 3.5 Visitor Movement Zones at Bray Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 43 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 44 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

3.6 Cliffs of Moher Site Name: Cliffs of Moher Date Surveyed: 14th & 15th June County: Clare Landscape Type: Rocky Shore/peat/grassland in peninsular context Total no. of People: 1362 Average Duration of visitors on site: 2:03:42

Site Description: The Cliffs of Moher in Co. Clare are located approximately six kilometres north of Liscannor. The cliffs are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. The Cliffs of Moher are located adjacent to the Cliffs of Moher SPA. The site is designated as an SPA for the protection of endangered species of birds listed in the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds. The Cliffs are also of significant geological and historical interest. The site is highly managed with a visible staff presence, a visitor centre, a large car park across the road and coach parking. O’Briens Tower is accessible from the North Platform. From here, access can be gained to the northern part of the Coastal Walk trail. The South Platform allows access to the walk to Hag’s Head along the southern section of the Coastal Walk trail. Observation was undertaken from between the Main Platform (near the visitor centre) and the North Platform.

Upgrades to Site: Since the 2015 Monitoring survey a 1.34 million contract for a coach reception building and upgrading of existing Coach Parking facilities- toilets, meeting rooms and offices.

Duration of Time Spent on Site 6:00:00

4:48:00

3:36:00

2:24:00 Time Spent Time 1:12:00

0:00:00

1 7

13 19 25 31 37 43 49 55 61 67 73 79 85 91 97

103 109 115 121 127 133 139 145 151 157 163 169 175 181 187 193 199 205 211 217 223 229 235 241 247 253 259 265 271 277

No. of Groups

Figure 3.36 Duration Spent at Cliffs of Moher7

7 The graph represents 278 of the 495 groups observed due to a low yield of departure times due to the nature of the site.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 45 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

Use of Interpretive Material at the Cliffs of Moher

41%

Yes No

59%

Figure 3.37 Use of Interpretive Material at Cliffs of Moher

Level of Activity Observed at the Cliffs of Moher 1600 1438 1400 Low Level Activity

1200 Medium Level Activity High Level Activity 1000

800 582

600 No. No. of Observations 400

200 8 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.38 Level of Activity Observed Cliffs of Moher

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 46 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

Activities Observed at Cliffs of Moher 2% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces

12% Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level 24% sand Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand

13% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

13% Watching nature in hedges, woods, 10% streams, pools and intertidal areas

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path 1% 1% Any movement leaving a trail through leafy 24% vegetation

Climbing on walls, loose stones, sand, soil etc.

Figure 3.39 Range of Activities Observed Cliffs of Moher

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 47 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

Level of Effect Observed at the Cliffs of Moher 250 217 Low Level Effect 200 Medium Level Effect

150 High Level Effect 150

100 No. No. of Observations

50

2 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Leveln of Effect Observed

Figure 3.40 Level of Impact Observed Cliffs of Moher

Effects Observed at Cliffs of Moher 6%

9% No identifiable effect

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation 26% Trampling of herbaceous 31% vegetation

Damage to woody vegetation

Addition/alteration of site features, transient emissions, 28% noise

Figure 3.41 Impacts Observed Cliffs of Moher

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 48 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

Table 3.6 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, Core Zone tracks and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland Secondary Zone (in some cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Cliffs of Moher 800 740

700 Core Zone Tertiary Zone 600

500

400

300

200

100 2 0 Core Zone Tertiary Zone Figure 3.42 Zones trafficked by visitors Cliffs of Moher

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 49 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Cliffs of Moher

3.6.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns

Visitor traffic at the Cliffs of Moher was recorded in the core zone (740 times) and the Tertiary Zone (Twice).

60% of visitors had a medium level effect to the site. This was a result of visitors trampling herbaceous vegetation and causing damage to woody vegetation. 40% of visitors had no identifiable effect to the site.

It was noted that there was evidence of soil compaction, erosion and removal of vegetation through trampling. Further details in this regard are presented in the Ecological Monitoring Report.

Image 3.6 Visitor Movement Zones Cliffs of Moher

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 50 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Loop Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 51 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

3.7 Loop Head Site Name: Loop Head Date Surveyed: 16th & 17th June 2018 County: Clare Landscape Type: Rocky shore/peat/grassland in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 498 Average Duration of visitors on site: 00:12:40 Site Description: Loop Head is located on a Peninsula north of the mouth of the River Shannon in Co. Clare. Loop Head Lighthouse is one of 70 lighthouses in Ireland that is operated by the Commissioner of Irish Lights. The lighthouse is open to the general public for tours and is managed by Clare County Council. The headland west of the lighthouse contains an ‘EIRE’ sign which was used during World War II to alert pilots that they were flying over Ireland. Loop Head is located within the Loop Head SAC and adjacent to the Loop Head SPA. The site is a designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also designated as an SPA for the protection of endangered species of birds listed in the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds. The site comprises of a car park for approximately 30-40 cars. The lighthouse is enclosed by a wall and is accessible to the public.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Loop Head Discovery Point since 2015.

Duration of Time Spent at Loop Head

2:24:00 2:09:36 1:55:12 1:40:48 1:26:24 1:12:00 0:57:36 0:43:12 Time Time Spent 0:28:48 0:14:24 0:00:00 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

No. of Groups

Figure 3.43 Duration Spent at Loop Head8

8 The graph represents 27 of the 234 groups observed on site due to a low yield of departure times due to the nature of the site

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 52 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Use of Interpretive Material at Loop Head

36%

Yes No

64%

Figure 3.44 Use of Interpretive Material at Loop Head

Level of Activity Observed at Loop Head 800 717 700 Low Level Activity

600 Medium Level Activity High Level Activity 500

400

300 No. No. of Observations 200

100 62 7 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.45 Level of Activity Observed at Loop Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 53 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Activities Observed at Loop Head 1% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces 6% Walking, running, cycling or playing in 9% mown grass, managed grassland or level 25% sand Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing 12% Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas 11% 16% Powered movement through water

20% Any movement leaving a trail through leafy vegetation

Climbing on walls, loose stones, sand, soil etc.

Figure 3.46 Range of Activities Observed at Loop Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 54 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Level of Effect Observed on Site 180 159 160 Low Level Effect 140 Medium Level Effect 120

100

80 60

60 No. No. of Observations 40

20

0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect Level of Effect Observed Figure 3.47 Level of Impact Observed at Loop Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 55 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Effects Observed at Loop Head

1% No identifiable effect

11% 2%

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation 8%

General/light littering

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation 78%

Incidentally moving or knocking site materials - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Figure 3.48 Impacts Observed at Loop Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 56 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Table 3.7 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some cases Secondary Zone farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Loop Head 215 211 210 Core Zone Secondary Zone 205

200

195 192

190

185

180 Core Zone Secondary Zone Figure 3.49 Zones trafficked by visitors at Loop Head

3.7.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns Loop head was trafficked by visitors in the Core (211), Secondary (192). 47% of visitor movements were recorded outside of the core areas.

78% of visitors had no identifiable effect on the site. Desire line were evident where visitors walked along the headland and a further 8% of visitor effects were identified as low.

12% of the overall effects observed were medium level effects associated with trampling of herbaceous vegetation. This is a result of the surrounding area being used as unrestricted parking facilities.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 57 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Loop Head

Image 3.7 Visitor Movement Zones at at Loop Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 58 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Killary Harbour

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 59 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

3.8 Killary Harbour Site Name: Killary Harbour Date Surveyed: 21st & 22nd of June County: Galway Landscape Type: Montane/upland/peat in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 1323 Average Duration of visitors on site: 00:20:54 Site Description: Killary Harbour is known to be Ireland’s only fjord and is located west of the village of Leenaun in Connemara, Co. Galway. Locally the area is known for aquaculture including salmon farms and mussel rafts. The site comprises of large lay-by west of Leenaun and has capacity for approx. 10-20 cars, there is also a small viewing platform. The candidate Signature Discovery Point is located adjacent to the Maumturk Mountains SAC. The site is designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Killary Harbour Discovery Point since 2015

Duration of Time Spent on Site 0:25:55

0:23:02

0:20:10

0:17:17

0:14:24

0:11:31

Time Time Spent 0:08:38

0:05:46

0:02:53

0:00:00

1 5 9

13 17 21 25 29 33 37 41 45 49 53 57 61 65 69 73 77 81 85 89 93 97

101 105 109 113 117 121 125 129 133 137 141 145 149 153 157 161 165 169 173 177 181 185 189 193 197

No. of Groups

Figure 3.50 Duration Spent at Killary Harbour9

9 Graph represents 198 of the 236 groups observed as not all departure times were recorded.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 60 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Use of Interpretive Material at Killary Harbour

37%

Yes No

63%

Figure 3.51 Use of Interpretive Material at Killary Harbour

Level Of Activity Observed at Killary Harbour 800 754

700 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity 600 High Level Activity 500

400

300 No. No. of Observations 200

100 14 18 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.52 Level of Activity Observed at Killary Harbour

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 61 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Activities Observed at Killary Harbour 1% 1% 2% 1% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces

12% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing 31% Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas

Scrambling on steep or loose slopes 26%

Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand

26% Climbing on walls, loose stones, sand, soil etc

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path

Figure 3.53 Range of Activities Observed at Killary Harbour

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 62 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Level of Effect Observed at Killary Harbour 250

213 Low Level Effect 200 Medium Level Effect High Level Effect 150

100 No. No. of Observations

50

12 6 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.54 Level of Impact Observed at Killary Harbour

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 63 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Effects Observed at Killary Harbour

2% 2% No identifiable effect 3% 2% 3% 1% Temporary change of character - due to the appearance or nature of activities (noise, crowds, etc.) 3% General/light littering

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

Addition/alteration of site features, transient emissions, noise

Transient disturbance, emissions, noise

Disturbance of wildlife

84% Direct interference with site material - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Figure 3.55 Impacts Observed at Killary Harbour

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 64 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Table 3.8 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions

Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Killary Harbour 250 234

200 Core Zone Tertiary Zone

150

100

50

1 0 Core Zone Tertiary Zone Figure 3.56 Zones trafficked by visitors at Killary Harbour

3.8.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns All the visitor movement records were within the Core zone at Killary Harbour (234 times) except for 1 record in the Tertiary zone due to water-based activities.

84% of visitors recorded no identifiable effect to the site. 10% of the effects from visitors were Medium level from noise/disturbance, water sports and flying of drones. 2% of visitors were recorded to have high- level effects from scrambling up steep areas and direct interference with on-site materials.

In addition, two groups of visitors caused sheep to become unsettled due to a high-level of noise.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 65 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Killary Harbour

Image 3.8 Visitor Movenment Zones at Killary Harbour

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 66 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

Downpatrick Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 67 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

3.9 Downpatrick Head

Site Name: Downpatrick Head Date Surveyed: 28th & 29th June

County: Mayo Landscape Type: Rocky shore/peat/grassland in peninsular coastal context

Total no. of People: 416 Average Duration of visitors on site: 00:24:35

Site Description: Downpatrick Head is a headland located north-east of the village of Ballycastle in Co. Mayo. It is noted for its cliffs, coastal features including blow holes and the sea stack (Dún Briste), and its megalithic and geological interest. Downpatrick Head consists of a carpark with two smaller laybys south of the car park. The car park has capacity for approximately 30 cars. From here visitors can walk to Downpatrick Head. The site is grazed by sheep in all areas. The land is a privately-owned farm. The site has been developed to include a ‘bund’ and viewpoint around the larger of two blowholes. There is also glass panels and safety railing surrounding the blowhole. The smaller blowhole (near to the car park) has been covered by steel mesh allowing visitors to walk over it.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Downpatrick Head Discovery Point since 2015

Duration of Time Spent at Downpatrick Head 1:12:00 1:04:48 0:57:36 0:50:24 0:43:12 0:36:00 0:28:48

Time Time Spent 0:21:36 0:14:24 0:07:12

0:00:00

1 4 7

10 13 16 19 22 25 28 31 34 37 40 43 46 49 52 55 58 61 64 67 70 73 76 79 82 85 88 91 94 97

100 103 106 109 112

No. of Groups

Figure 3.57 Duration Spent at Downpatrick Head 10

10 The graph represents 112 of 194 groups observed during the monitoring, the departure time of 82 groups were not recorded

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 68 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

Use of Interpretive Material at Downpatrick Head 2%

Yes No

98%

Figure 3.58 Use of Interpretive Material at Downpatrick Head

Level of Activity Observed at Downpatrick Head 700 632 Low Level Activity 600 Medium Level Activity 500 High Level Activity

400

300

200 177

100 23 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity

Figure 3.59 Level of Activity Observed at Downpatrick Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 69 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

Activities Observed at Downpatrick Head

1% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces 12% Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown 23% grass, managed grassland or level sand

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand 9%

Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

11% Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas

Any movement leaving an existing trail or 21% marked path

Any movement leaving a trail through leafy vegetation 20% 3% Climbing on walls, loose stones, sand, soil etc.

Figure 3.60 Range of Activities Observed at Downpatrick Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 70 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

Level of Effect Observed at Downpatrick Head 160 145 140 Low Level Effect 118 Medium Level Effect 120 High Level Effect 100

80

60 No. No. of Observations 40

20 7 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effects Observed

Figure 3.61 Level of Impact Observed at Downpatrick Head

Effects Observed at Downpatrick Head 1%

5% Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation

40% No identifiable effect 54%

Incidentally moving or knocking site materials - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Figure 3.62 Impacts Observed at Downpatrick Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 71 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

Table 3.9 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Secondary managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some cases Zone farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Downpatrick Head 300 Core Zone Secondary Zone

250 242

200 188

150

100

50

0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Figure 3.63 Zones trafficked by visitors at Downpatrick Head

3.9.1 Analysis of Results 18% of the visitor movements observed were recorded within the tertiary zone. More than half of all visitor movements (56%) were outside of the core movement areas.

55% of visitors where observed to have a medium level effect to the site. This resulted from groups trampling herbaceous vegetation with one being observed climbing on the stone church foundations. 44% of visitors had no identifiable effect to the site. The remaining 1% had a high-level effect occurring from a member of a group picking flowers along the cliff edge.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 72 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Downpatrick Head

Image 3.10 Visitor Movement Zones at Downpatrick Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 73 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Keem Strand

Keem Strand

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 74 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Keem Strand

3.10 Keem Strand Site Name: Keem Strand Date Surveyed: 30th June & 1st July County: Mayo Landscape Type: Soft shore/beach in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 727 Average Duration of visitors on site: 01:20:00

Site Description: Keem Strand is a rural and sheltered beach surrounded by cliffs on Ireland's largest island - Achill Island. It can be found at the head of a valley between the cliffs of Benmore to the west and Croaghaun Mountain on the east on Achill Island. Follow the Atlantic Drive before turning north towards the Golden Strand. Sheltering under Slievemore Mountain, you can wander through a strange unnamed linear settlement, known simply as the Deserted village. Keem Strand is located within the Croaghaun Slievemore SAC. The site is a designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Toilet and car parking facilities are located north of the site. There is a life guard hut, a van selling snacks and a container with facilities for kayaking present in the lower car park.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Keem Strand Discovery Point since 2015

Duration of Time Spent at Keem Strand 8:24:00 7:12:00 6:00:00 4:48:00 3:36:00

Time Spent 2:24:00 1:12:00

0:00:00

1 3 5 7 9

11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53 55 57 59 61 63 65 67 69 71 73 75 77 79 81 83 85 87 89 91 93 95 97 99 No. of Groups

Figure 3.64 Duration Spent at Keem Strand11

11 The graph represents 101 of the 292 groups observed during the surveys. The low yield of the departure times is due to the nature of the site

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 75 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Keem Strand

1% Use of Interpretive Materials at Keem Strand

Yes No

99%

Figure 3.65 Use of Interpretive signs at Keem Strand

Level of Activity Observed at Keem Strand 1000 945 900 Low Level Activity 800 Medium Level Activity 700 High Level Activity 600

500

400

No. No. of Obervations 300

200 89 100 69

0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.66 Level of Activity Observed at Keem Strand

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 76 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Keem Strand

Activities Observed at Keem Strand

1% 1% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing 9% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces 26% Walking, running, cycling or 10% playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand Swimming, sailing, surfing, kayaking in water

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand 12%

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path 25% 16% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Figure 3.67 Range of Activities Observed at Keem Strand

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 77 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Keem Strand

Level of Effect Observed at Keem Strand 300

252 Low Level Effect 250 Medium Level Effect

200 High Level Effect

150

100 No. No. of Observations

50 27 7 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.68 Level of Impact Observed at Keem Strand

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 78 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Keem Strand

1% Effects Observed at Keem Strand 1% 2% No identifiable effect

7%

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation 9%

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

Direct interference with site material - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Incidentally moving or knocking site materials - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc. 80% Desire lines or tracks visible outside of existing trail or marked path

Figure 3.69 Impacts Observed at Keem Strand

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 79 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Table 3.10 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions

Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, Core Zone tracks and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Keem Strand 180

160 154 Core Zone

140 Secondary Zone Tertiary Zone 120

100

80 74 65 60

40

20

0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Tertiary Zone Figure 3.70 Zones trafficked by visitors at Keem Strand

3.10.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns All three zones where trafficked by visitors to Keem Strand. The core zone received most movement (154 times) while the Secondary zone was trafficked 65 times. The Tertiary zone had a high-level (74 times) of movement because of visitors using the steep maritime grassland areas/fixed dunes to access the beach.

89% of visitors to Keem Strand had low or no identifiable effect to the site. 9% had a medium level effect resulting from a group leaving the marked path to cut through long grass leaving desire lines. 2% of the high-level effects resulted from the physical alteration of natural streams entering the sea through damning.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 80 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Image 3.11 Visitor Movement Zones at Keem Strand

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 81 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Mullaghmore Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 82 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

3.11 Mullaghmore Head

Site Name: Mullaghmore Head Date Surveyed: 7th & 8th July County: Sligo Landscape Type: Rocky shore/grassland in a coastal plain context Total no. of People: 874 Average Duration of visitors on site: 1:53:52

Site Description: Mullaghmore Head is a headland located north of the village of Mullaghmore in Co. Sligo. The area is noted for its surfing waves, the historical interest of Classiebawn castle and the skyline dominated by Ben Bulben Mountain. Mullaghmore Head is located within the Bunduff Lough and Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC. The site is a designated as an SAC for several habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site comprises of a large layby accommodating approximately 10 cars. A smaller layby east of the site was also observed during the study. This layby can accommodate less than five cars.

Upgrades to Site: There have been no site upgrades at Mullaghmore Head Discovery Point since 2015

Duration of Time Spent at Mullaghmore Head 0:28:48 0:25:55 0:23:02 0:20:10 0:17:17 0:14:24

0:11:31 Time Time Spent 0:08:38 0:05:46 0:02:53 0:00:00 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53 55 57 59 61 63 65 67 69 71 73 75 77 79 81 83 85 87 89 91 93 95 97 No. of Groups

Figure 3.71 Duration Spent at Mullaghmore Head12

12 The graph represents 97 of the 215 groups observed on site due to departure times not being recorded, this is due to the nature of the site.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 83 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Use of Interpretive Materials at Mullaghmore Head

33%

Yes No

67%

Figure 3.72 Use of Interpretive Material at Mullaghmore Head

Level of Activity Observed at Mullaghmore Head 800 755

700 Low Level Activity

600 Medium Level Activity

High Level Activity 500

400

300 No. No. of Observations 200

100 32 4 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.73 Level of Activity Observed at Mullaghmore Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 84 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Activities Observed at Mullaghmore Head 2% 1% 2% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces

9% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing 25% Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand 10% Watching nature in hedges, woods, streams, pools and intertidal areas

Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand 14% Any movement leaving a trail through leafy vegetation 22% Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path

Swimming, sailing, surfing, kayaking 15% in water

Figure 3.74 Range of Activities Observed at Mullaghmore Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 85 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Level of Effect Observed at Mullaghmore Head 250 217 Low Level Effect 200 Medium Level Effect High Level Effect 150

100 No. No. of Observations

50 34

4 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.75 Level of Effects Observed at Mullaghmore Head

Effects Observed at Mullaghmore Head 2% 1% No identifiable effect

12%

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

56% 29% Desire lines or tracks visible outside of existing trail or marked path

Injuring, killing or taking wildlife

Figure 3.76 Range of Effects Observed at Mullaghmore Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 86 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Table 3.11 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, Core Zone tracks and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Mullaghmore Head 200 176 180

160 152

140

120 Core Zone 100 Secondary Zone 80 Tertiary Zone 60

40 29

20

0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Tertiary Zone Figure 3.77 Zones trafficked by visitors at Mullaghmore Head

3.11.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns The visitor movement data showed that roughly 50% of all visitor movement at Mullaghmore Head is within the Core zone (trafficked 176 times). 42.5% of the visitor movement data was recorded along the headland (Secondary Zone) this occurred 156 times. The Tertiary zone was trafficked by visitors 29 times during the survey.

85% of visitors to Mullaghmore head were recorded to engage in low level activities that resulted in no effects. Medium level effects where observed on site (14%) resulting from two cars driving onto long grass. 1% of visitors were observed to have high-level effects due to fishing activities.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 87 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Mullaghmore Head

Image 3.12 Visitor Movement Zones at Mullaghmore Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 88 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

Sliabh Liag

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 89 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

3.12 Sliabh Liag Site Name: Sliabh Liag Date Surveyed: 5th & 6th July County: Donegal Landscape Type: Montane/upland/peat in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People:1072 Average Duration of visitors on site: 0:06:11 Site Description: Slieve League cliffs are located on the north-west coast of Donegal approximately five kilometres from the town of Carrick. They are among the highest, accessible sea cliffs in Europe. Slieve League is located within the Slieve League SAC and the West Donegal Coast SPA. The site is a designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also designated as an SPA for the protection of endangered species of birds listed in the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds. The area is also of significant geological interest. The site comprises of a lower car park and toilet block (under construction) and an upper car park facilitating approximately 20 cars. There is a walking trail towards the summit of Sliabh Liag at the site. Visitor facilities include a large viewing platform, interpretation panels, picnic benches and formal paths.

Upgrades to Site: During the 2015 survey a new toilet block was under construction. The 2018 survey noted the works being completed with good management and upkeep. A cliff top walkway is under construction towards the peak of Sliabh Liag.

Duration of Time Spent at Sliabh Liag 12:43:12 AM

12:36:00 AM

12:28:48 AM

12:21:36 AM

12:14:24 Time Spent AM

12:07:12 AM

12:00:00 AM 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 No.of Groups

Figure 3.78 Duration Spent at Sliabh Liag

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 90 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

Use of Interpretive Material at Sliabh Liag 1%

Yes No

99%

Figure 3.79 Use of Interpretive Material at Sliabh Liag

Level of Activity Observed at Sliabh Liag

1200 1130

1000 Low Level Activity

800 Medium Level Activity

600

400 No. No. of Observations

200

17 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.80 Level of Activity Observed at Sliabh Liag

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 91 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

Activities Observed at Sliabh Liag

Resting, reading, looking, 1% 1% picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

9% Walking, running or cycling on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces 26% Walking, running, cycling or 10% playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand

Swimming, sailing, surfing, kayaking in water

Sitting on benches, walls, mown 12% grass, sand

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path

Scrambling on steep or loose 25% slopes 16% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Figure 3.81 Range of Activities Observed at Sliabh Liag

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 92 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

Level of Effect Observed on Site 350 304 300 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect 250 High Level Effect 200

150

No. No. of Observations 100

50 18 1 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effects Observed Figure 3.82 Level of Impact Observed at Sliabh Liag

Effects Observed at Sliabh Liag

5% 5% No identifiable effect

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation

90%

Figure 3.83 Impacts Observed at Sliabh Liag

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 93 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Sliabh Liag 300 268

250 Core Zone Secondary Zone

200

150

100

50

9 0 Core Zone Secondary Zone

Figure 3.84 Zones trafficked by visitors at Sliabh Liag

Table 3.12 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, tracks Core Zone and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

3.12.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns Less than 5% of the visitor movements observed were recorded outside of the Core movement zone. Visitors moved within the Core Zone 268 times with the Secondary zones being trafficked only 9 times. Most of the time was spent in the core zone due to the steep incline in the Secondary area along with difficult terrain.

95% of visitors to the site engaged in activities that resulted in Low or no effects to the site. 5% recorded medium level effects from trampling of vegetation and climbing on steep slopes. There were 2 records of high-level effects resulting from 2 visitors jumping a fence and trampling vegetation.

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 94 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Sliabh Liag

Image 3.13 Visitor Movement Zones at Sliabh Liag

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 95 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

Fanad Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 96 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

3.13 Fanad Head

Site Name: Fanad Head Date Surveyed: 14th & 15th July County: Donegal Landscape Type: Rocky shore/peat/grassland in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 534 Average Duration of visitors on site: 1:47:40

Site Description: Fanad Head is positioned in the Fanad Peninsula near Lough Swilly on the north coast of Co. Donegal. Fanad Head Lighthouse is one of 70 lighthouses in Ireland and is operated by the Commissioner of Irish Lights. The lighthouse is now open to the public and includes guided tours of the grounds and lighthouse. Fanad Head is located within the Ballyhoorisky Point to Fanad Head SAC and the Horn Head to Fanad Head SPA. The site is a designated as an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also designated as an SPA for the protection of endangered species of birds listed in the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

Upgrade to Site: During the 2015 survey the lighthouse was closed to the public. It is now open as a visitor attraction but many visitors still do not enter the lighthouse. There has also been upgrades to the site on terms of a new car park and a Visitor Centre.

Duration of Time Spent at Fanad Head

1:55:12 1:40:48 1:26:24 1:12:00 0:57:36

Time Time Spent 0:43:12 0:28:48 0:14:24 0:00:00 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 No. of Groups

Figure 3.85 Duration Spent at Fanad Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 97 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

Use of Interpretive Material at Fanad Head

46% Yes No 54%

Figure 3.86 Use of Interpretive Material at Fanad Head

Level of Activity Observed at Fanad Head 600 534

500 Low Level Activity

400 Medium Level Activity

300

200 No. No. of Observations

100 36

0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity Level of Activity Observed

Figure 3.87 Level of Activity Observed at Fanad Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 98 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

Activities Observed at Fanad Head

Walking, running or cycling 5% on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces 6% Walking, running, cycling or 25% playing in mown grass, managed grassland or level sand 15% Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Vehicular movement on roads and parking areas

Any movement leaving a trail through leafy 25% 24% vegetation

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked path

Figure 3.88 Range of Activity Observed at Fanad Head

Level of Effect Observed at Fanad Head 100 91 90 Low Level Effect 80 70 Medium Level Effect 60 50 46 40

No. No. of Observations 30 20 10 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect Level of Effects Observed

Figure 3.89 Level of Impact Observed at Fanad Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 99 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

Effects Observed at Fanad Head 1% 1%

No identifiable effect

19%

Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

20% 59% Addition/alteration of site features, transient emissions, noise

Transient disturbance, emissions, noise

Figure 3.90 Impacts Observed at Fanad Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 100 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

Table 3.13 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions

Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, Core Zone tracks and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Fanad Head

250

194 200 Core Zone Secondary Zone

150

100

50 28

0 Core Zone Secondary Zone

Figure 3.91 Visitor Traffic by Zone at Fanad Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 101 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Fanad Head

3.13.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns Visitors to Fanad Head were recorded in the Core zone 194 times; 12% of visitor movements observed were in the Secondary zone (trafficked 28 times) when visitors left the core zone to walk along the headland.

59% of visitors had no identifiable effect to the site and a further 20% had low levels of effects observed. Evidence of the trampling of herbaceous vegetation was apparent across fences where visitors trafficked secondary zones (19% of all effects observed; 12 incidences). The remaining 2% were due to noise pollution and physical interactions with fencing. This is readily reversible and will not have a lasting impact.

Image 3.14 Visitor Movement Zones at Fanad Head

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 102 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Malin Head

Malin Head

EVIRONMENTAL SURVEYING AND MONITORING RESULTS

CAAS for Fáilte Ireland 103 2018 Visitor Observation Study Results Malin Head

3.14 Malin Head

Site Name: Malin Head Date Surveyed: 12th & 13th July 2018 County: Donegal Landscape Type: Rocky shore/peat/grassland in peninsular coastal context Total no. of People: 605 Average Duration of visitors on site: 0:32:29 Site Description: Malin Head is located within the North Inishowen Coast SAC and is a proposed Natural Heritage area (pNHA). The site is an SAC for a number of habitats and species listed on Annex I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The area is also of significant geological interest. The site attracts visitors for being the most northerly point in the mainland of Ireland. The site comprises of two small car parks and a cliff top walk. Observation was undertaken from the upper carpark near Lyolds Signal Tower. From here the lower car park can also be viewed. Three World War II look out posts and a viewing platform (constructed in late 2014) are adjacent to the upper car park. Malin Head was part of a pilot survey in 2014.

Upgrade to Site: During the 2015 survey planning permission was approved for a new car park and toilet facilities at the lower car park, both were apparent at the site during the 2018 survey.

Duration of Time Spent on Site 2:52:48 AM

2:24:00 AM

1:55:12 AM

1:26:24 AM

Time Time Spent 12:57:36 AM

12:28:48 AM

12:00:00 AM

1 4 7

10 13 16 19 22 25 28 31 34 37 40 43 46 49 52 55 58 61 64 67 70 73 76 79 82 85 88 91 94 97

100 103 106 109 112 115 No. of Groups

Figure 3.92 Duration Spent at Malin Head 13

13 The graph represents 117 groups of the 343 observed due to a low yield of departing times due to the disperse nature and scale of the site.

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Use of Interpretive Materials at Malin Head

38%

Yes No

62%

Figure 3.93 Use if Interpretive Materials at Malin Head

Level of Activity Observed at Malin Head 700 658

600 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity 500 High Level Activity 400

300

No. No. of Observations 200

92 100 19 0 Low Level Activity Medium Level Activity High Level Activity

Level of Activity Observed Figure 3.94 Level of Activity Observed at Malin Head

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Activities Observed at Malin Head 2% Walking, running or cycling 4% on paths, marked trails or hard surfaces

Walking, running, cycling or playing in mown grass, 37% managed grassland or level 27% sand Resting, reading, looking, picnicking, sightseeing, painting, photographing

Sitting on benches, walls, mown grass, sand

Any movement leaving an existing trail or marked 30% path

Figure 3.95 Range of Activities Observed at Malin Head

Level of Effect Observed at Malin Head 400 341 350 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect 300 High Level Effect 250

200

150 No. No. of Observations 100 49 50 3 0 Low Level Effect Medium Level Effect High Level Effect Level of Effect Observed

Figure 3.96 Level of Impact Observed at Malin Head

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Effects Observed at Malin Head 2%

5% No identifiable effect

22% Desire lines or trails visible on grass and leafy vegetation

Trampling of herbaceous vegetation

71% General/light littering

Figure 3.97 Impacts Observed at Malin Head.

Visitor Traffic by Zone at Malin Head 250 219

200 Core Zone Secondary Zone

150 118

100

50

0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Figure 3.98 Zones trafficked by visitors at Malin Head

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Table 3.14 Visitor Movement Zones Descriptions Existing car parks, paved areas, viewing platforms, marked pathways, trails, Core Zone tracks and managed grassland and areas where pathways, trails or roads exist. The majority of visitors remain in these zones. Areas outside of existing car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and managed grassland. visitors are likely to traffic areas of grassland (in some Secondary Zone cases farmland grazed by sheep or cattle), heath or bare rock, usually to get a better view of site attractions or to access trails at the site. Areas where no car park, paved areas, marked pathways, trails, tracks and Tertiary Zone managed grassland are identifiable and beyond the immediate boundaries of the site.

3.14.1 Analysis of Results and Visitor Movement Patterns 35% of visitor movements observed were outside of the core area. Visitor Movement in the Core zone at Malin Head was recorded 219 times. The Secondary zone was trafficked 118 times from visitors moving across bare rock and vegetation to observe the lookout post or signal tower.

71% of visitors had no identifiable effect to the site and conversely, 29% of visitors were recorded to have some level of effect on the site. 5% of all the impacts observed were because of damage to vegetation due to trampling which was observed 12 times. Visitors that left marked trails to explore the different focal points, marked trails became evident. Two visitors were observed to climb across a mound resulting in visible desire lines.

Further assessment into the implication of the effects observed to the vegetation need to be explored in the Ecological Monitoring Report.

Image 3.15 Visitor Movement Zones at Malin Head

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Section 4 Collective Analysis of All Sites

This section reviews all 14 monitoring sites collectively in terms of time spent on site, modes of transport, level of activity and impacts.

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02:24 Average Duration across all Sites

02:09 2:03:42

1:53:52 01:55 1:47:40

01:40

01:26 1:22:40 1:20:00 Average Duration on site

01:12

1:00:00

Avergae Avergae Duration 00:57

00:43 0:32:29

00:28 0:24:35 0:20:54 0:20:43 0:20:00 0:12:40 00:14 0:08:15 0:06:11

00:00

Figure 4.1 No. of People and Analysis of Average Duration Spent on Each site

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Mode of Transport

2000 1893 Car On Foot

1800 Bus Caravan 1600 1552 Other Bicycle 1400

1200 Motorbike Minibus

1000 Coach 800

600

400

200 127 118 106 67 56 27 7 0 Car On Foot Bus Caravan Other Bicycle Motorbike Minibus Coach

Figure 4.2 Mode of Transport used to reach Discovery Sites

Overall Level of Activity across all sites 12000

9860 10000 Low Medium High

8000

6000

4000 No.l No.l of Observations

1858 2000

192 0 Low Medium High Level of Activity Observed

Figure 4.3 Overall Level of Activity Recorded across all sites

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Activity Level by Site 100%

90%

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0%

Low Med High

Figure 4.4 Level of Activity Observed across all sites 14

14 Note that these are percentages of observed activities to give a relative scale for comparison. Details on the actual numbers at each site can be found in the relevant chapter

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Activities Observed across all sites

4000

3500

3000

2500

2000

No. of Observations ofNo. 1500

1000

500

0 Walking, running or Walking, running, Sitting on benches, Swimming, sailing, Resting, reading, Vehicular movement Watching nature in Powered movement cycling on paths, cycling or playing in walls, mown grass, surfing, kayaking in looking, picnicking, on roads and hedges, woods, through water marked trails or mown grass, sand water sightseeing, parking areas streams, pools and hard surfaces managed grassland painting, intertidal areas or level sand photographing

Activities Observed

Figure 4.5 Range of Activities Recorded across all site15

15 Fishing, walking through wet/muddy soil, scrambling on steep or loose slopes, off road vehicular movement, Disturbance of wildlife, Deliberate building or moving or knocking site materials - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand etc., Picking herbaceous vegetation; all these activities accounted for less than 1% of the overall total.

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Impacts observed across all Sites

4000 3735

3500 Low Impact Medium Impact 3000 High Impact 2500

2000

1500 No. No. of Observations 1000 807

500 45 0 Low Impact Medium Impact High Impact Level of Impact Observed

Figure 4.6 Overall level of Impact Observed Across All Site

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Overall Level of Impact by Site 450

400

350

300

250

200 No. No. of Observations 150

100

50

0

Low Medium High

Figure 4.7 Level of Impact Observed of Impacts Observed across all sites

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Range of Impacts Observed across all Sites

3500

3000 2922

2500

2000

1500

1000 700 615

500

69 42 40 0 No identifiable effect Desire lines or trails Trampling of herbaceous Desire lines or tracks Temporary change of Incidentally moving or visible on grass and leafy vegetation visible outside of existing character - due to the knocking site materials - vegetation trail or marked path appearance or nature of parts of monuments, activities (noise, crowds, walls, stones, sand, etc.) rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc.

Figure 4.8 Range of Impacts Observed across all sites16

16 Direct interference with site material - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc, Removal of material - parts of monuments, walls, stones, sand, rooted vegetation, flora, fauna etc, Vandalism or graffiti, Destruction of structures, vegetation or fauna, Heavy littering or dumping quantities of waste, Burning materials or lighting a fire, Injuring, killing or taking wildlife

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Visitor Traffic by Zone across all Sites 4500 3904 4000 Core Zone

3500 Secondary Zone Tertiary Zone 3000

2500

2000

1500

1000 845

500 206 0 Core Zone Secondary Zone Tertiary Zone Figure 4.9 Zones trafficked by visitors across all sites

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Section 5 Analysis of Results for all sites in 2018

5.1 General Analysis of Sites

Of the 10,472 visitors observed during the 2018 survey;

• Of the 10,472 visitors observed during the 2018 survey; • 81% were reported to take part in low level activities on sites; • 17% were reported to take part in medium level activities on sites; • Less than 1% of all visitors were recorded to take part in high level activities on any of the sites; • Cars where the most common mode of transport recorded across all sites during the survey; • The Core zones were recorded to receive the most visitor traffic (78.8% of all movement recorded) and • The average duration recorded across all sites was 00:46:00.

5.2 Site Based Evidence

• Mizen Head (95%), Blasket View (98%), Bray Head (98%) recorded no identifiable effects, these four sites are examples of good site management which in turn results to visitors having minimum environmental effects to any site; • On analysis, it was noted that the longer visitors spent on site, the likelihood of environmental effects increased; • 81.4% effects recorded on site were low i.e. walking on marked paths, resting, reading, photographing and sightseeing; • A further 17.5% of all activities observed were medium level primarily caused by visitors leaving an existing marked trial or path; • Of the 4571 environmental effects recorded, only 45 were determined to be high-level (less than 0.1%) • 63.9% of visitor effects were recorded to have no environmental effect to the sites; and • Since the 2015 survey there has been a rise in the number of visitors bringing drones to the sites (from none in 2015 to 8 recorded in 2018).

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Section 6 Conclusions, and Trends Observed

6.1 Comparing 2015 to 2018 Results

• A total of 10,472 visitors were observed across the fifteen Signature Discovery Points; compared to 6,043 visitors recorded during the 2015 survey; • Of the 10,472 visitors observed during the survey 81% were reported to have a low impact on the sites; compared to the 2015 survey which recorded 89% of visitors having a low impact; • 17% were reported to have a medium impact, 8% where recorded to have medium effects in 2015; • 0.9% of all visitors where recorded to have a high impact in 2018, this is compared to 1.7% having high-level impacts in 2015; • Since the 2015 survey there has been a rise in the number of visitors bringing drones to the sites (from none in 2015 to 8 recorded in 2018); • During the 2015 survey, Fanad Head lighthouse was closed to the public, it now operates on a guided tour basis; • Sliabh Liag was undergoing upgrades to toilet facilities in 2015, it was observed that all works where completed during the 2018 survey; • In 2015 Donegal county council approved planning permissions for new facilities at Malin Head which were apparent at the site in 2018; • All sites with good visitor management in 2015 were also noted to have high levels of good Visitor Management in 2018 (Old Head of Kinsale, Mizen Head and Blasket View); • Cliffs of Moher recorded heavy erosion because of visitor movement on the headland during the 2015 and 2018 surveys, it also had the biggest change in level of effects with only 26% having low level effects compared to 40% in 2015 • Each Site recorded a similar level of effect in 2015 and 2018 (Table 6.1) • Figure 6. 1 and Table 6.1 give detail on each site comparison for 2015 and 2018.

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Comparison of Levels of Impact from 2015-2018

100% 0.1 2.1 1.1 1.7

9.6 90% 17.5 20.8

34 80%

70%

60%

50%

Axis Title Axis 88.3 40% 81.4 77.5

64.9 30%

20%

10%

0% 2018 2017 2016 2015

Low Impact Medium Impact High Impact

Figure 6.1 Level of Impact Observed from 2015-2018

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Table 6.1 Visitor Observation Analysis Summary; detailed per site for 2015 and 2018

Site Name County Site Summary (2018) Site Summary (2015) Old Head of Cork • 70% - No identifiable environmental effect • 75% - No identifiable environmental effect Kinsale • Good visitor management • 18% - Medium level activity - leaving paved areas • 12% - Medium level activity - leaving paved areas. Mizen Head Cork • 95% - No identifiable environmental effect • 99% - No identifiable environmental effect • 5% - Medium level activity • 1% - High-level activities • Good visitor management observed Dursey Sound Cork • 52% - No identifiable environmental effect • 65% - No identifiable environmental effect • 46% - Medium level activity- leaving desire lines • 29% - Medium level activity • 1% - High-level activities Bray Head Kerry • 98% - No identifiable environmental effect • 98% - No identifiable environmental effect • Good site management • 1% - high-level activities - temporary disturbance- discarding • 1% high-level- child throwing stones from cliff edge cigarette butt Radharc na Kerry • Well managed site - 97% no identifiable environmental effects • 94% - No identifiable environmental effect Mblascaoidi • Core zone was trafficked 259 times • 802 times- core zone was trafficked (Blaskets View) • Visitors aware of site sensitivities • 28 times- secondary zone was trafficked Loop Head Clare • 80% - No identifiable environmental effect • 95% - No identifiable environmental effect • 12% - trampling herbaceous vegetation • 2% - High-level activities- Removal of material • Zones trafficked by visitors - Core (211 times), Secondary (188 times) and Tertiary (4 times) Cliffs of Moher Clare • 60% - Medium level activity • 26% - No identifiable environmental effect • 40% - No identifiable environmental effect • 74% - Medium level activity • Evidence of soil compaction, erosion and removal of vegetation • Areas with visitor management had best practice by visitors through trampling • Evidence of deeply eroded desire lines • Core Zone trafficked 740 times • Tertiary Zone trafficked twice Killary Harbour Galway • 84% - No identifiable environmental effect • 86% - No identifiable environmental effect • 8% - Medium level activity • 9% - High-level activities • Core zone trafficked 234 times, tertiary trafficked once- water • Core zone trafficked 87 times based activity • Secondary zone trafficked 13 times Keem Strand Mayo • 89% - No identifiable environmental effect • 88% - No identifiable environmental effect • 9% - Medium level activity • 4% - Medium level activity • Core Zone received most movement (154 times) • 294 Times- Core zone trafficked • Tertiary Zone (74 times) - visitors using dunes to access beach • 36 Times- Secondary Zones Trafficked Downpatrick Head Mayo • 55% - Medium level activity- trampling herbaceous vegetation, • 81% - no identifiable environmental effect climbing church foundations • 2% - medium level activity-throwing stones into the sea • 44% - No identifiable environmental effect to the site • 8% - High level activities - greyhound training • 1% high level activities- picking flowers at cliff edge. Mullaghmore Sligo • 85% - No identifiable environmental effect • 97% - No identifiable environmental effect Head • 14% - Medium level activity- cars driving on long grass • Core trafficked 274 times • Core Zone trafficked 176 times • Secondary trafficked 34 times • Secondary Zone trafficked 156 times

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Site Name County Site Summary (2018) Site Summary (2015) Sliabh Liag Donegal • 95% - No identifiable environmental effects to the site • 94% - No identifiable environmental effect (Slieve League) • 5% - Medium level activities - jumping over fences • 4% - Medium level activities • Core Zone movement (268) • Core zone trafficked 189 times, Secondary zone trafficked 139 • Secondary Zone movement (9) times • • Tertiary zone trafficked 33 times Cionn Fhánada Donegal • 59% - No identifiable environmental effect to the site • No Identifiable environmental effect on site (Fanad Head) • 19% - recorded trampling herbaceous vegetation • Core zone was trafficked 173 times • Core Zone trafficked 194 times; • Secondary zone trafficked 100 times • Secondary Zone trafficked 28 times Malin Head Donegal • 71% - No identifiable environmental effect to the site • 75% - No identifiable environmental effect to the site • 219 - Times core zone was trafficked • 13% - Medium level activities at the site • 118 - Time Secondary Zones was trafficked • 182 - Times Core zone was trafficked • 12% - Medium level activities at the site • 185 - Times Secondary zone was trafficked

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6.2 Recommendations

Site management is recommended where visitors spend more than 15/20 minutes at one site. When considering the level of management warranted at a site several factors should be considered:

• site size and dispersal; • Level of activity recorded; and • Average duration of time spent at site.

All sites should be evaluated and developed to ensure the correct facilities are put in place to deal with the level of footfall each site receives. Interventions can include the removal of infrastructure and the management of visitor movements through a remote visitor centre with shuttle services provided. If sites are left without any intervention, effects that are currently not causing significant impacts, may in the long- term cause effects to worsen. Visitor loadings and carrying capacities should be monitored regularly at any tourist destination. The following are some general suggestions for some of the signature discovery points for their future management:

• At sites with little or no signage, it is suggested to erect new signage at access points and car parks to make visitors aware of the sensitivities associated with the site (Old Head of Kinsale); • Sites where visitors frequently take part in recreational activities could be facilitated by a warden during months in which sites have the highest visitor numbers (Keem Strand); • Any usage of drones at discovery sites should be managed correctly; • Improve/review interpretive materials to inform visitors of any sensitive areas at all sites and how to behave in said areas; • Information notices at sites with upland heathland systems should be erected to inform visitors of the highly sensitive nature of the habitats present and to be aware of sticking to marked trails and paths (Sliabh Liag, Malin Head and Loop Head).

Note: Where recommendations are executed by the relevant authority at site level as a result of this monitoring programme compliance with the EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC), associated national regulations and relevant planning and consent processes as will be required.

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6.3 Yearly Trends Over the last four years of Observational Surveying carried out along the Wild Atlantic Way, evidence has shown that the smaller less disperse sites receive less visitor movement which in turn results in fewer environmental impacts.

Well managed sites have low levels of effects and in most cases over 95% of visitors have no identifiable environmental effect if managed appropriately.

The 2018 survey recorded the largest number of visitors and in turn recorded the largest number of effects to the 15 chosen sites. However, the fewest number of high-level activities (45) were recorded in 2018 due to the effective management strategies employed at the sites.

Statistical analysis shows that there is no significant difference in activity levels year on year (χ2 = 12.00; p = 0.213). There is no significant difference in activity levels specifically between the environmental effects observed in 2018 and 2015 across all sites (χ2 = 2.00; p = 0.157). Thus, the overall activity levels identified each year are similar in nature.

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