Fermanagh boaters left high and dry after Forum closure

THE CLOSURE of the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum in Enniskillen has left local boaters feeling like they’re adrift, as they’ve lost a vital amenity: shower facilities.
For years, the Forum served as a hub for both locals and tourists, offering a range of services from entertainment to essential amenities.
Among these, the shower facilities were particularly valued by the boating community, who rely on them for basic hygiene.
“I have been coming to Enniskillen for four years on the boat,” one local boat owner told the ‘Herald.
“The closing of the Forum has affected us badly as we no longer have shower facilities in Enniskillen town.
“It would discourage me from coming into Enniskillen on the boat as the facilities for boaters are very poor for such a tourism area.”
The lack of shower facilities could have wider implications for the Enniskillen tourism industry.
Boating is a significant draw to the town, and the loss of this amenity could deter visitors from choosing Enniskillen as their destination.
“I have been boating for three years. I enjoyed coming to Enniskillen for a weekends on the boat. But with no facilities now I will not be visiting,” another avid boat user said.
“The facilities in the south of Ireland are so much better with many jetties having electricity and well kept shower blocks,” they added.
Waterways Ireland stated that they are one of a number of partners in the formulation of the Lough Erne Visitor Experience Development Plan but that Fermanagh & Omagh District Council is the provider of ‘on-shore services’ including showers.
“Shower facilities are available at Bellanaleck, Carrybridge, Knockninny and Galloon on the upper lough and at Belleek on the lower lough,” a spokesperson from Waterways Ireland said.
“Waterways Ireland will continue to collaborate with Fermanagh & Omagh District Council on provision of services for all users of Lough Erne and regrets any inconvenience caused.”
A spokesperson from the council responded, “Fermanagh and Omagh District Council provides seasonal shower facilities at locations across the district and in particular around Enniskillen and Lough Erne, including Bellanaleck, Belleek Marina, Carrybridge, Garrison Rusheen, Muckross (Kesh), Knockninny and Galloon.