Killarney’s growing greenways

COUNCIL GETS LAND ALONG FLESK TO EXTEND KILLARNEY’S GREENWAYS

KILLARNEY is managing to grow its greenway routes at a time when similar projects countywide appear bogged down in difficulties .

Kerry County Council this week announced it has acquired a ‘parcel’ of land alongside the Flesk on which it now hopes to create a new greenway walking and cyclingroute.

The route will link in with existing trails to allow walkers and cyclists the option of travelling off-road all the way from the Hotel Europe in Fossa into the heart of the National Park by Muckross.

News of the announcement was widely welcomed this week. Funding and planning proceses have yet to be negotiated of course, but the acquisition at least sees this long-mooted plan closer to realisation than ever.

“This will be an absolutely wonderful addition to Killar- ney’s selection of walkways and cycleways and will provide locals and visitors alike with a fabulous riverside amenity connecting Muckross Road and Ross Road,” Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal Area Brendan Cronin said.

It’s expected the new route will enhance the town’s tourism take even more at a time when Greenways are becoming one of the most important parts of tourism strategies across Europe.

“This will further enhance Killarney’s international reputation as a walking and cycling destination and will provide users with a dedicated, safe, off-road route to enjoy at their leisure. I look forward to its completion at the earliest opportunity,” Cllr Cronin said.

Meanwhile, the North Kerry extension of the Great Southern Trail, the Fenit/Tralee walkway and the South Kerry Greenway still appear mired in difficulties.