Scenic trail from Ballisodare to Collooney opens

A brand new trail between Ballisodare and Collooney has just opened for cyclists and walkers alike.

The 4k off road route is the result of a joint initiative between Ballisodare Communtiy Council and Sligo County Council. Described as scenic and tranquil, the trail weaves its way along the riverside and through Union wood to Collooney.

Chairwoman of Ballisodare Community Council Margaret Savage says: “It runs from the village of Ballisodare in behind the main street to the Teeling Centre in Collooney. Part of it was used by locals before but other parts are completely new. It is not fully finished but it is functional and open at the moment. We will be having an official opening in the coming weeks.”

The feedback so far as been positive says Margaret who stresses the track is accessible to everyone, including those with buggies and wheelchairs.

“The surface is very good and suitable for cycling.”

The idea behind the project was to join the two towns in a safe way as going along the road was not suitable or safe. Margaret says: “It is a wonderful amenity and very beautiful. There are parts of the river that are very calm and peaceful. You can also see Knoxpark and the woods are tranquil.”

There are a number of other trails in Union Wood that can be accessed from this new walkway as Margaret says: “This really opens up the wonderful amenity that is Union Wood which people traditionally accessed from the Ballygawley road.”