Camper parking among improvements suggested for 'local gem' Lilliput

Improvements at Lilliput would help make the lakeside facility a top destination for holidaymakers, according to Cllr Liam McDaniel.

At the September meeting of the Municipal District of Athlone Moate, he tabled a motion seeking upgrades to the roads and swimming facilities, the provision of campervan parking and other services to attract more visitors.

"It struck me when I was out there, we have a local gem," Cllr McDaniel said. "It’s lovely when you get to it, but it’s the getting to it. The road networks could do with serious improvement.

"It’s a huge attraction. The swimming facilities are good and Lilliput Adventure Centre is an amazing facility to have in our county. The problem is, you don’t know where it even is until you’re about a mile from it. There’s no signage.

"I was thinking, we have the 365 day-a-year swimmers, and could we put in some shower and changing facilities for them. Another thing is the campervans. We have lakes all over the county, and campervans are what people are using now to go on holidays. It would be nice if we have facilities for them at Lilliput, it’s an ideal location."

The Fianna Fáil councillor received unanimous support from fellow council members.

"It is well kept, and well run. A lot of swimmers use it, and it does need something like a changing room," said Cllr Johnnie Penrose.

Cllr Tom Farrell added: "There’s no point harping on about it. We need campervan facilities in Westmeath, and we should draw up a plan. We’re in the middle of the country, it’s a lovely area to visit, and if we had those facilities, it would make a huge difference."

In a written response, the executive noted that significant works have already been undertaken at Lilliput, including improvements to toilets, enhancements to lakeshore walking trails, and upgrades to roads within the amenity.

It added that further requests could be considered for funding under the 2026 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. The executive also confirmed that Westmeath County Council do not currently have a policy of providing campervan facilities at lakeshore amenities.