New five-year plan sets out vision for a healthier and more active Leitrim

A new five-year plan aimed at getting more people active and improving access to sport and physical activity opportunities across Leitrim has been launched.

Active & Healthy Leitrim: A Local Sport & Physical Activity Plan for Leitrim 2026–2031 was officially launched at Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens by Leitrim County Council, Leitrim Sports Partnership and Sport Ireland.

The plan sets out a vision for an “active, connected and healthy Leitrim where everyone can participate, progress and thrive through sport and physical activity”.

It aims to make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to take part in physical activity, while also addressing some of the barriers that can prevent people from getting involved.

More than 520 residents, young people and stakeholder organisations contributed to the consultation process which helped shape the new plan.

The five-year strategy is centred around three key themes: Active People & Communities, Active Spaces & Places, and Active Communication & Partnerships.

A total of 50 actions have been identified, covering areas including increasing participation, supporting local sports clubs and volunteers, improving access to facilities and strengthening partnerships between organisations and communities.

Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Mary Bohan, said the plan is intended to ensure opportunities to become active are available regardless of age or previous experience.

“Whether someone is eight or eighty years of age, whether they have been involved in sport all their lives or are taking their first steps towards becoming active, we want Leitrim to be a county where that opportunity exists,” she said.

The plan also places an emphasis on the wider benefits of physical activity, including community connection, inclusion and wellbeing.

Leitrim County Council Director of Services Vincent Dwyer said the strategy was about more than sport, describing it as an opportunity to support “healthier communities” and ensure people of all ages and abilities can be active.

Chairperson of Leitrim Sports Partnership Michael O’Rourke said the ambition over the next five years is to see more people becoming active, with more opportunities available and fewer barriers to participation.

The Local Sport and Physical Activity Plan will now provide a framework for how sport, physical activity and recreation are developed and supported across County Leitrim over the next five years.

The strategy is based on a partnership approach, with Leitrim County Council, Leitrim Sports Partnership, Sport Ireland, local clubs, community organisations and other partners involved in delivering its objectives.

The plan forms part of efforts to increase participation in sport and physical activity throughout the county while supporting the wider health, social and community benefits associated with being active.