PLAN FOR BOAT TRIPS ON THE BLACKWATER[
A RIVER boat trip on the Blackwater similar to experiences offered on the continent and on the Mississippi in the USA is among the visions that Cork County Councillor Frank Flynn has for the further development of a proposed ‘ blueway’ on Ireland’s second longest river.
Cllr Flynn was speaking to The Corkman following a recent meeting of the Northern Committee of Cork County Council during which an update was given about proposals to develop the project from Mallow to Killavullen.
The meeting was told by Mary Hayes, North Cork Senior Executive officer, that planning was to be applied for infrastructural works for the Blue Way at Mallow Town Park in the second quarter of the year.
“I don’t think we realise the full potential of the Blackwater,” said Cllr Flynn. “You’re talking about walking activities, sailing activities, tourism activties and you would incorporate Doneraile Park, Annsgrove in Castletownroche and the last part of the puzzle, the Viaduct in Fermoy.
“It could put life back into rural Ireland,” he said. Afterwards he gave more detail about his idea that there should be daily river boats on the Blackwater along the sections where it’s passable.
“I’m talking about a boat, which could have a retractable roof, which would sail on the river between May and September.
“I was on a river boat in Holland and when it started raining a mechanical roof operated.”
There was general support among the councillors for the Blue Way project and the progress in getting the project to the planning stage was applauded by councillors.
Ms O’Shea pointed out that experts had advised them that the Blue Way by itself was a good development but its real potential is to act as a hook to keep people in the region once they arrive in the town.