On 13 March 2017, Secretary of State for the Economy, Francine Closener, participated in the presentation of the Interreg VA Grande Région project "Nature tourism for all to the Germano-Luxemburg Nature Park" in Irrel, Germany.
The project aims at a common strategy to realise the potential of the complementarities of the German-Luxembourg natural park as a transnational tourist destination. Cross-border cooperation of nature parks has already proved its worth in the development of additional German-Luxembourg roads, notably as part of the marketing and management of trails in the NaturWanderPark delux.
Within the framework of accessibility, the creation of hiking trails "comfortable and without obstacles" is paramount. Accessibility does not target a restricted audience, but all those affected by reduced mobility and activity limitations, thus offering better comfort that will evolve into a standard service for all customers in the future.
When drawing up quality standards for accessible trails, close co-operation between the German and Luxembourg authorities, the Deutscher Wanderverband and the organizations of persons with disabilities in both countries is foreseen.
The project also intends to carry out major infrastructure works, including the construction of a bridge for cyclists and hikers in the Sûre valley, as well as a transnational tourist information point accessible to everyone in Rosport.
The total cost of the Interreg VA Grande Région project totals € 3,345,036. The Ministry of the Economy supports the project with € 702,315 and the regional tourist offices of the Ardennes and the Müllerthal region as well as the international centre for sport, culture and leisure Ralingen-Rosport contribute € 317,863.
Francine Closener commented that: "The nature-for-all tourism project at the Germano-Luxemburg Nature Park is part of not only promoting active tourism, but also improving the 'Design for all' offer.”
Photo of Francine Closener, Secretary of State for the Economy, by MECO
