WORK is progressing steadily on the high-profile Lough Lein loop walk project in Killarney and progress has been made in relation to an agreed understanding of the environmental constraints of the development, it has been confirmed.
The steering committee is confident that agreement can be reached in relation to the impact the proposed route will have on the Tomies and Dinis section.
The overall plan is to develop a walk around Lough Léin but it passes through areas of high scenic amenity value and environmental sensitivity so very detailed and rigorous environmental assessment is required.
Kerry County Council said once a number of environmental issues have been resolved, a clearer picture of the project and the timescales for completion to planning stage will be available.
A proposed extension of the greenway from Fossa to the Gap of Dunloe is being developed in partnership with the Fossa Community and Development Association but this may become a stand-alone project to be progressed concurrently.
The proposed loop walk has featured detailed negotiations involving Fáilte Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Kerry County Council, landowners and local walking and tourism groups.
A meeting of the Killarney Municipal District Council has been told that works are progressing on a number of other key sections including:
* Fossa Way to the Gap Cross: Transport Infrastructure Ireland will carry out traffic calming measures outside the Golden Nugget bar and restaurant and other works to extend the cycleway.
* Gap Cross to Liebherr lands: The design is complete and agreement with the landowner is ongoing.
* Liebherr lands: A survey and preliminary design work has been completed and a tender for fencing is complete.
An application for LEADER funding has been submitted to the South Kerry Development Partnership and a decision is expected in May.
In addition, route corridor options are to be agreed for the section between Tomies Cross and the Gap of Dunloe and discussions with landowners are required.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service have finalised the purchase of land required for a new access road and car park at Tomies Wood but funding for the construction of the car park is not yet in place.
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