Not Just Like a Boat That Goes on Land (or Is This What an Aire is Like?)

Richie15

I was on a cruise of the Shannon last week and although it seemed pretty expensive at first glance, thinking about it afterward, there were public marinas/harbours where we could tie up at night, fill the water tanks, dump the rubbish all completely free. There was also a sewage dump and showers at most of them, for a reasonable fee.

How come they can do that for boats, but not for motorhomes? I'm guessing that's what the Aires de Service are like, yeh? I don't see why the clubs can't just broker a deal with whomever's in charge of the waterways, to allow campers to use the harbour facilities.

Any views?

stapeler

Richie15 wrote: »

How come they can do that for boats, but not for motorhomes? I'm guessing that's what the Aires de Service are like, yeh? I don't see why the clubs can't just broker a deal with whomever's in charge of the waterways, to allow campers to use the harbour facilities.

Any views?

Probably a couple of reasons,
A. The travelling community typically don't have boats so the Inland Waterways don't have to worry about halting sites all along the Shannon.
B. Motorhoming/Camping community are considered the "poor" cousins who don't spend money in the local areas.
C. No County Council/Public organisation (apart from Askeaton councillors) have the imagination to introduce such facilities.

I am all in favour of Aire De Services, I've lobbied some of the councils over the years but falls on deaf ears.
Portumna marina is an prime example of the need for these services, typically during the summer weekends there can be approx 20 Motorhomes parked up. It's only a matter of time before the council steps and puts a ban in place. On the other hand, take 20 M/Hs at say €10 per night, provide basic services and it would more than cover expenses (might even cover the employment of a caretaker)
I'd suggest lobbying your local TDs and Councillors for such facilities, eventually they might start to listen.

Aidan_M_M

My Dad tried getting Planning permission for one nnear the Shannon , outside Portumna , initial talks with the County Council were very enthusiastic ,...submitted the application for planning , and Refused . Barstewards...