Pictures: Valerie O’Sullivan
A NEW walkway and cycleway, which was officially opened at the weekend, is the latest jewel to be added to Killarney’s tourism crown and it is expected to attract thousands of people over the busy summer months.
The 750m off-road route, alongside the River Flesk, links Ross Road with Muckross Road, and it was funded by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and the National Transport Authority under their Active Travel scheme.
Running at the rear of houses at Castle Falls and The Priory, the cycleway and walkway was constructed by Daniel Canty, under the supervision of Killarney Municipal District engineers John Ahern and Stephen Sheehan.
Work started in November 2020 and, despite stoppages due to Covid, it has finished in time for the summer season.
The route was officially opened, at a very low key ceremony, by Mayor of Killarney Cllr Brendan Cronin and it will add key link to the town’s cycling and pedestrian pathways.
“It is a project that has been on the agenda for quite some time and significant work has been carried out by the elected members, council officials and local communities in making it a reality,” the mayor said.
“Over the past 18 months, with the various restrictions due to Covid, the ability for people to be able to go out for a cycle or a walk has been critical for their wellbeing.
“The development of such a key outdoor recreation project is crucial for the town and we look forward to being able to further continue the development of such dedicated cycleways and pathways,” said Cllr Cronin who acknowledged the input of recently retired councillor Michael Gleeson who was in attendance at the opening with his wife, Kathleen.
Killarney Municipal District Manager, Angela McAllen also praised all those involved in the project and pointed to the importance of having such projects shovel-ready, in terms of design and planning, to be able to take advantage when national funding for projects such as these become available.
“This a key link between the Muckross and Kenmare estates and with fantastic views along the river, it is something that young and old can enjoy in a safe, vehicle-free setting”, she said.
“We are committed to improving the cycling and walking provision for residents and visitors to this county, in keeping with the objectives of the county development plan and the desire for greater access for all ages.”
Fr Niall Howard officially blessed the new route and acknowledged the importance of a quiet space for walking and cycling.
