Cllr Donal Lyons has said he is encouraged that work is set to commence providing a new woodlands walking route in Rusheen.
The Galway City Council has indicated that the Parks Woodlands Team will start on the project in May or June subject to approval by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
“The existing lane in Rusheen is widely used by the public," Cllr Lyons says. "However, damage is occurring to the woodland where the lane ends as walkers are traversing the woodland in various directions and inadvertently causing damage to the woodland surface.
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"The proposal will see the existing lane being cleaned up and a loose gravel covering being laid along the existing route and a new route being made which is currently most widely used, and will create a walkway from the existing lane leading through the woods to the Barna Road.
"It is hoped that the new route will entice walkers to remain on the new route and thus avoiding further damage to the woodland."
Local asset
Cllr Lyons believes the walking route will be a significant asset to the local community.
"Prior to Christmas, I was made aware that a gate had been erected on the Rusheen lane and advising the public that the lane was a private road," Cllr Lyons adds. "I made representations to Galway City Council and recently received confirmation that the lane is a public right of way. I have been informed that the gate presently in position will be replaced by a smaller gate which will allow pedestrian access to the laneway."
