Courses
€5.1 million funding boost for unlocking heritage opportunities for slow tourism
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has welcomed the announcement that Unlocking Heritage Opportunities for Slow Tourism (SLOWTOUR) has been selected for €5.1 million in funding under the Interreg North-West Europe (NWE) Programme.
Led by ATU through its STORY@ATU multicampus team, SLOWTOUR is an ambitious transnational project focused on revitalising urban areas by unlocking the potential of industrial and cultural heritage as a driver of sustainable, slow tourism. The project will support cities and regions to reimagine under-used heritage assets, creating richer visitor experiences while delivering lasting social, cultural and economic benefits for local communities.
The success of the proposal is a significant milestone for ATU and highlights the leadership and collaboration of James Hanrahan, Deirdre Byrne, John Carty and Domhnall Melly, ATU staff whose expertise and commitment were central to securing the funding.
Commenting on the announcement, James Hanrahan, director of the UNWTO Atlantic Sustainable Tourism Observatory Ireland and STORYATU, said:
This funding represents a major vote of confidence in ATU’s vision for heritage-led, sustainable tourism. SLOWTOUR is about slowing down, looking again at the places we live in, and working with communities to unlock the stories, skills and heritage that already exist.
He added:
“By working closely with our Irish and European partners, we aim to transform overlooked industrial heritage into vibrant assets that support local economies, strengthen cultural identity and enhance quality of life for residents as well as visitors.”
SLOWTOUR brings together a strong partnership including Fáilte Ireland, Galway City Council, Limerick City and County Council, and a range of European partners, reflecting a shared commitment to community-centred, place-based tourism development across North-West Europe.
The SLOWTOUR project will now move into its next phase following final technical approval, with implementation expected to begin in 2026.
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Tel: +353 89 963 9559
E: ivana.hanjs@atu.ie
