More clarity and engagement are needed with landowners when it comes to the extension of the Waterford Greenway.
That's the call from Fine Gael Councillor Declan Doocey.
Cllr. Doocey says people have been left in the dark on plans to extend the Greenway from Dungarvan onto Mallow.
The Dungarvan-Mallow Greenway would connect towns like Cappoquin, Lismore, and Fermoy, as well as many smaller villages on its way.
The Irish Farming Association (IFA) highlighted the concerns of farmers along the route considering most of the old railway line is no longer in public ownership and has been re-purchased by farmers over the years.
Many important issues and concerns for farmers include the loss of privacy with Greenways, crossings, litter, animal disease, and wildlife implications resulting from developments.
"Private houses and farmers that own the land must be respected", said Cllr. Doocey. "I'm saying that since the very beginning - and I'm being told that they're not. They're not playing the game at all. Some people have an ambition of doing this at any cost. There has to be common sense too."
"People are very concerned out there", Cllr. Doocey conceded. "You can have the best intentions in the world - we need to have more business in that community and going up along, but not at any cost. Our understanding from what we've been told is that the costs are going to go north of €200m. I'd be more supportive of the Greenway than anyone, and I still don't think it's value for money. It must come with a bit of cop-on, a bit of common sense, and it must be practical."
Cllr. Doocey's sentiments were echoed by Cllr. John Pratt (Labour).
"I'm someone who would still be very supportive of the Greenway - but understanding of the issues, being out there - that are facing some house owners. I understand that but I would still be very supportive if a way could be found, but I do think we aren't being kept in the loop. We definitely aren't, and it was assured that someone would come back to us and keep us informed. We're not being kept informed, and I think that's important."
