An application to designate the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher in Co Clare as Ireland's third geopark has been submitted to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco).
The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher geopark application was submitted by Clare County Council and heritage and tourism bodies. Proposals are geared towards the sustainable development of visitor centres in the Burren region.
Plans include upgrading of the Burren centre in Kilfenora and the development of other educational and visitor resources. They would include up-to-date information on the geology of the region.
If successful, the Burren and the cliffs would join the Marble Arch caves in Co Fermanagh/ Cuilcagh Mountain Park and the Copper Coast in Co Waterford as Ireland's only internationally-designated sites in the European geoparks network.
It is claimed the designation would assist in the preservation of the geological heritage of the area and the enhancement of a sustainable tourism base in the west.
The Burren plateau is one of the finest examples of karstic limestone terrain in the world, while the Cliffs of Moher are said to be the highest cliffs in Europe.
A recently-developed Burren code has been launched to raise awareness of the removal of karst limestone rock and other practices that damage the area.
Clare County Council hopes a designation would have a dramatic impact on living conditions and the environment of the area.
Shannon Development, which is another key backer of the move, believes a designation would also assist in the economic development of the area, strengthening its heritage aspects.
A proposed entity called the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark Committee would be set up to ensure a geological input into developments in the area.
Geology is being integrated as the keystone display feature in the new "visitor experience" currently under construction at the Cliffs of Moher. The Unesco proposal envisages similar emphasis on geology at other visitor centres, making geology a constant theme in the region.
It has been proposed that the National Parks and Wildlife Service rangers will monitor the sites.
