Wexford Local Development (WLD) are proud to support the newly developed “Poulregan Equestrian” near Castlebridge just outside Wexford town.
Owner Micheal O Rourke has developed a 10km trekking route on his farm, incorporating the river bank and an old disused quarry. It is a beautiful scenic route overlooking Wexford harbour with extensive local flora and fauna of the coastal area. The course is designed to suit both novice and experienced riders and includes a series of optional jumps for the more experienced riders. The facility is now open to visitors who wish to bring their own horses or to persons who wish to avail of the centre’s own horses for the duration of their visit.
The trekking centre dovetails well with other offerings for the tourist in the region and brings associated economic benefits to the area.
Great care has been taken to ensure local native trees and plants are maintained and protected, thereby preserving the sensitive heritage and eco system surrounding the farm.
The disused quarry is also an ideal venue for training sports teams and encouragement of team building and bonding skills. This is a niche market which could be extended to include corporate team building days for Irish and UK companies to be marketed in conjunction with local hotels.
In a later stage of development, it is proposed to develop an on-site fishing facility on the river. This would result in the equestrian centre having a menu of activities to cater for all ages and skills levels, ultimately providing a valuable tourism facility in Castlebridge.
Castlebridge is well positioned to develop tourist and leisure facilities due to its proximity to Wexford town, Enniscorthy and Curracloe beach.
It is hoped that the development of this facility might encourage the growth of other tourism related activities in the village.
Wexford Local Development, through the LEADER Programme (2007-2013) provided capital and marketing grant aid associated with establishing the new venture.
For further information visit www.poulreganequestrian.ie