A Greenway between Dungarvan and Mallow could become a reality, it's been announced.
Waterford City and County Council, along with Cork County Council will examine the feasibility of a new Greenway linking the two counties.
In a statement, Waterford Council said the potential attraction would be developed along a 77.35km stretch of scenic countryside adjacent to the River Blackwater, using viaduct crossings at key landmark locations.
The route under consideration would run from Mallow, through to Fermoy, and onto Dungarvan where it could link-in and connect with the existing Waterford Greenway.
Funding of €361,238 has been awarded to both local authorities by the Department of Transport under the "Strategy for the Future Development of National and Regional Greenways," to complete the feasibility project.
Commenting on the project, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Kelly, said,
The existing Waterford Greenway has been an unparalleled success since its opening in March 2017. We have witnessed at first hand the transformative effect that a project like this can have on local communities, business and the health and well being of our people. Here in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Waterford has already been working with Kilkenny, Wexford and Tipperary on Greenway and other outdoor recreation projects. We now look forward to potentially creating further linkages with our near neighbours in Cork through what has the potential to be a very exciting Greenway project.”
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Gillian Coughlan, said, “This project, should it come to pass, would provide a wonderful opportunity to create a vibrant tourist attraction in the north of the county, which in turn could feed into the tremendous success that is the Waterford Greenway. Nature has already provided us with a wonderful backdrop which in itself already draws tens of thousands of tourists every year."
The Feasibility study
Cork County Council will act as the lead authority to carry out the feasibility study.
Consultancy company Atkins has been appointed to work with the local authority on this. Atkins has previously consulted on the Royal Canal Greenway, the Baldoyle to Portmarnock Greenway, the Fingal Coastal Way, and the Boyne Greenway.
Kieran Boyle, Technical Director at Atkins, said: “The Dungarvan to Mallow Greenway Project will provide a new scenic link for local communities and tourists alike to traverse between attractions while enjoying the beautiful landscape. We look forward to collaborating with Cork County Council and Waterford City and County Council to create a new focal point for the region that supports more sustainable travel, encourages tourism, and complements the natural landscape.”
Public consultation on the Dungarvan to Mallow Greenway
As part of the initial steps in the development of the feasibility study, the local authorities are launching an Online Public Consultation to seek the views of the general public on the potential new Greenway.
The Consultation will provide information on the vision for the Greenway and other keys details being considered during the initial feasibility route option assessment study.
Members of the public are invited to visit this link to submit their comments online. A local awareness campaign will also be undertaken.
In October 2021, The Waterford Greenway picked up Silver in a European Award ceremony. More here.
