Tomies Woods to re-open

Locals and visitors walking in the Killarney area will once again be able to enjoy the scenic beauty of Tomies Woods as works to create a new access to the popular amenity are to be completed by the summer.

Funding of €500,000 was granted late last year for works to re-open the walking spot and to install a new car park for those using the facility.

The route had been closed for a number of years over an access row, which caused much upset locally.

In February 2015, Killarney Municipal Area councillors voted in favour of a material contravention of the County Development Plan to allow a new access road to proceed. This was appealed to An Bord Pleanála who ultimately upheld the council’s plans.

Now, more than three years later, the project was given the green light and funding granted.

One of the finest walks in Kerry, through native oakland, Tomies Wood is located on the slopes of Tomies Mountain overlooking Lough Leane.

At this month’s meeting of Killarney Municipal District councillors described the project as vital for the town of Killarney.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will carry out the works which include a new access route and 28 space car park. A minor legal issues has yet to be sorted but Kerry County Council told councillors that the works are to be completed by this summer in time for the 2019 tourist season.