Developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Waterford City and County Council, the Waterford Visitor Dispersal and Orientation Strategy (VDOS) aims to create a more connected visitor experience by enhancing orientation and encouraging further exploration of Waterford's natural assets, activities and attractions, while supporting local communities.
The strategy will also focus on improving access to visitor information and encouraging sustainable travel options.
The strategy will complement other initiatives within the Waterford Destination and Experience Development Plan (DEDP), which sets out the wider tourism development vision for County Waterford and considers its role as part of Ireland’s Ancient East.
Work to date has included a detailed analysis of visitor infrastructure across the county, and the development of the emerging strategy is progressing well. The project team is now inviting everyone with an interest in the tourism development of County Waterford to share their knowledge, experience and ideas to help shape the Strategy.
County Waterford is rich in natural landscapes, heritage and cultural experiences, a vibrant urban centre and welcoming rural communities. The strategy will build on these strengths and explore how visitors can be better supported to discover and move between the county’s many attractions and destinations, when planning their trip online and while visiting Waterford.
Head of Ireland's Ancient East at Fáilte Ireland, Brian O'Flynn said, “Waterford has a rich tourism offering, from its vibrant city centre to its coastal and rural destinations. This Visitor Dispersal and Orientation Strategy is an important part of the wider Waterford Destination and Experience Development Plan and will help strengthen how people access, navigate and experience the county.
“By improving information, connectivity and orientation, the strategy will encourage greater exploration of Waterford's unique attractions and experiences, support sustainable tourism growth and further develop Waterford's position as a compelling destination within Ireland's Ancient East. We welcome stakeholders and local communities to participate in this consultation and help shape this strategy.”
Appointed consultants, The Paul Hogarth Company, is seeking to test, refine and develop the emerging proposals by drawing on the knowledge and experience of people who live, work and visit County Waterford. Feedback received through the consultation will help inform and finalise the strategy. The consultation will remain open until October 16th, 2026. Further information and survey details are available on https://awqaw573pjr.typeform.com/WaterfordVDOS
Anyone with an interest in the future of tourism in County Waterford is invited to participate by completing the online survey, or by joining an online webinar on Monday, October 5th from 6pm to 7pm. To register https://tinyurl.com/WaterfordVDOS
