SKDP keeps up backing of greenway
CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSIONS TO AN BORD PLEANÁLA IS OCTOBER 19 Discussions ongoing on the N86 improvement scheme
SOUTH Kerry Development Partnership (SKDP) has welcomed that Kerry County Council (KCC) has recently lodged an application for the development of the 32-kilometre South Kerry Greenway project from Glenbeigh to Renard.
SKDP feels the proposed project could transform the south Kerry region economically and socially in providing a recreational experience for visitors and locals alike.
In a statement released in recent days, the board pointed out that “in commissioning the initial feasibility study into the South Kerry Greenway project through the Rural Development Programme (LEADER) in 2011, SKDP recognised the importance of the project in potentially addressing the longterm socio-economic decline of the Iveragh peninsula”
“The uniqueness and beauty of the South Kerry landscape is one of our great assets, and the South Kerry Greenway can play a significant role in allowing people to experience and enjoy that beauty,” Chairperson Gloria O’Driscoll said.
“The development of the KERRY County Council said discussions are ongoing with the TII in regard to funding the next phase of the N86 Dingle-to-Annascaul and Gortbreagoge-to- Camp Road improvement.
This was outlined in response South Kerry Greenway will assist in attracting visitors away from busy traditional tourist centres and into rural communities, with significant associated job creation potential in local tourism and hospitality businesses”.
The board pointed to the success of similar projects in Waterford and Mayo as signs of the project’s potential.
The application to An Bord Pleanála includes an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and a controversial Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) which would allow Kerry County Council to acquire the land necessary for the project. This would impact on 222 parcels of land and 197 landowners in the region.
The prospect of a CPO has been fiercely opposed by some. Just over a week ago, 60 people attended an Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association public meeting at Foilmore Community Centre. Its chairman, Gerry Loftus, believes that farmers “are being bullied”.
The closing date for submissions to An Bord Pleanála is 19 October, and An Bord Pleanála may decide to hold an oral hearing in regard to these. to a recent question submitted by Councillor Seamus ‘Cosaí’ Mac Gearailt.
“It is hoped that funding will be made available in 2019 to allow the progression of the detailed design and tender documents,” the response read.