The much anticipated Connemara Greenway project, which involves 52 kilometres of walking and cycling route from Clifden to Oughterard, was given an extra boost this week after a funding grant of €25,000 was allocated to the project.
Fáilte Ireland announced the grants which will be given to local authorities around the country for the development of greenways. The allocation to the Galway County Council for the Connemara Greenway was welcomed by new deputy mayor, Eileen Mannion, who explained that the grant will be used to complete the design stage of the project and progress it to construction.
Clifden based Cllr Mannion said: “The Greenway will be of enormous benefit to the region in terms of attracting more tourism to the area and will also be a safe amenity for local people to enjoy.
“The hard work of the local community group who started the process several years ago must be recognised and the support from Forum Connemara, Galway County Council, and Fáilte Ireland in bringing the project this far.
“The Greenway would give a jobs boost to the area both at construction stage and more long term jobs when the project is complete as there would be increased demand for bike hire, restaurants, and accommodation.”
The Connemara Greenway Project is estimated to cost in the region of €9.2 million. The track itself will have an asphalt surface and will incorporate seven new bridges, signage information boards, and mapping, along with the existing Galway to Clifden Railway. Galway County Council is currently involved in on-going meetings with landowners in relation to the construction of the Greenway.
