The elected members of the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District gave their approval for a 10.6km greenway to link Achill Sound with Bunnacurry at their June monthly meeting which took place this week.
Achill based Fianna Fail Cllr Paul McNamara said that it was a great day for Achill and that the Great Western Greenway that is already in situ, was probably the most important piece of infrastructure on the western seaboard. He pointed out how important the greenway tourism is to Achill and how the new development would enhance the offering that can be provided on the island.
The plan will see the construction of 10.6km of road-segregated walking and cycling paths with tie-ins to the existing walking trails and local roads. The path will vary in width from 2.6m to 4m. There will be construction of a 413m raised boardwalk and boundary fencing, wall construction and farm crossings. One house on Achill Sound is to be demolished and traffic calming introduced, along with the construction of a place, promenade and public realm.
A number of landowners made submissions in relation to the project and Cllr McNamara said that consultation with them will be key to ensure there are no issues with the project going forward.
