Restoration of the Ulster Canal in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland: A Promising Cross Border Tourism and Economic Boost

Published on September 18, 2025

Communities on both sides of the Irish border are experiencing renewed hope as the long-awaited Ulster Canal restoration project continues to make headway. The goal of this ambitious plan is to restore the historic waterway that used to link Clones in County Monaghan, Republic of Ireland, and Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Once an essential transportation route, the canal is now expected to play a key role in the expanding cross-border tourism industry. In addition to increasing the area’s appeal to tourists, the project is anticipated to boost economic expansion and strengthen ties between the Republic and Northern Ireland.

The Project’s Phases: From Lough Erne to Clones

The Ulster Canal restoration is being carried out in three phases, with significant progress already made. Phase One, which extends from Lough Erne to Castle Saunderson, and Phase Two, connecting Clones to Clonfad, have both been completed. These sections of the canal are already open to navigation, allowing tourists and local businesses to experience the waters once again.

The completion of these phases has been widely celebrated. Local communities, particularly in Clones, have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of the canal’s revival. Tourism has already increased in the area, as more visitors are attracted by the promise of peaceful boat rides and scenic views. The canal has breathed new life into areas that were previously underserved by major tourist attractions, providing new opportunities for local businesses, particularly in hospitality and retail.

The Final Phase: The Heart of the Project

The remaining section of the Ulster Canal, Phase Three, which spans the route between Castle Saunderson and Clonfad, is currently under development. This final phase is crucial, as it will complete the canal’s restoration, linking the two regions and creating a continuous waterway that will stretch from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland. The project is being overseen by Waterways Ireland, which is currently handling land acquisition, planning, and the detailed design work for the final stretch of the canal.

Once completed, this final section will further boost the canal’s potential to become a central feature of the all-island inland waterway network. The restored canal will offer an exceptional opportunity for people to travel between the towns of Clones and Enniskillen. This journey will connect with the Erne and Shannon waterways, opening up a broader network of water-based travel for tourists from both Ireland and abroad.

Benefits to Tourism: A Cross-Border Holiday Destination

The restoration of the Ulster Canal is expected to transform the region into a major cross-border tourism destination. The completed canal will form part of a unique, all-Ireland inland waterway system, providing a scenic route for visitors who enjoy leisurely boat trips. The canal’s revival is seen as a major step toward creating a sustainable tourism product that highlights the natural beauty and historical significance of the Irish borderlands.

Once fully restored, the Ulster Canal will attract visitors who are keen to experience the tranquil, picturesque landscapes that Ireland is known for. It will offer a distinctive opportunity for tourists to explore both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, travelling seamlessly between the two without needing to switch between different transport methods. This cross-border connection will be particularly valuable for those looking to explore lesser-known gems of the Irish countryside.

Phase Two of the project has already had a noticeable impact on tourism in Clones. Visitor numbers have increased, as people come to see the transformation of the canal and enjoy the opportunities it provides for leisurely boating. The completion of Phase Three is expected to expand these opportunities, offering more options for tourists to explore the region, discover charming villages, and experience local hospitality.

Economic Impact: Supporting Local Businesses

The Ulster Canal project is also seen as an economic boon for the surrounding areas. The canal will not only provide a draw for tourists but will also support local businesses, particularly in the tourism, hospitality, and service industries. As more visitors flock to the region, businesses such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, cafes, and local shops stand to benefit. The increase in tourism will also encourage investment in infrastructure, improving roads, signage, and amenities that make the area more accessible to tourists.

The restoration of the canal is being viewed as a way to boost the local economy by creating jobs and providing opportunities for new business ventures. With greater numbers of tourists expected, there will be a rise in demand for guided tours, water sports, boat rentals, and cultural experiences that highlight the region’s heritage. Local communities are hopeful that the project will lead to long-term growth and prosperity.

A Vision for the Future

The Ulster Canal restoration is about more than just tourism and business development; it represents a broader vision for the future of the region. This project highlights the potential for cross-border cooperation between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, where shared resources and interests can create a more connected and prosperous landscape. The canal is symbolic of the positive outcomes that can arise from such collaboration, bringing people together and fostering mutual respect and understanding.

In the long run, the Ulster Canal is expected to play a key role in the development of a sustainable tourism economy in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It will offer visitors a unique experience while helping local communities thrive through increased economic activity and improved infrastructure.

A Bright Future for the Ulster Canal

The promise of a new era for tourism and economic growth becomes more apparent as the Ulster Canal restoration project approaches completion. The project’s last phase will finish turning this historic waterway into a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are investing in their common history by restoring the canal, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit both areas for many years to come.

[Image Source: Discover Ireland Official Website]