A planning application has been submitted to develop a new 32km greenway in south Kerry.

Kerry County Council lodged a application for the South Kerry Greenway yesterday, 29 August, with An Bord Pleanála.

It outlines the development of a greenway between Glenbeigh and Reenard on the Iveragh Peninsula, running parallel to the Ring of Kerry.

The route will be constructed mostly on the corridor of the abandoned Great Southern railway line with off-line sections being constructed on adjacent lands and local roads. It will include the provision of car parks, and the upgrading of existing bridges and tunnels such as the Cahersiveen Railway Bridge, Gleesk Viaduct and tunnels at Drung Hill.

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The scheme impacts on 222 landholdings and 197 landowners and was the subject of extensive public consultation over the past decade. The Council will continue to engage with landowners throughout the process and a dedicated information line will be made available.

The planning application comprises an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) which assesses the anticipated environmental impact of the project. A Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) notice for the acquisition of the privately-owned lands to allow the council to develop the greenway will be published today, 30 August.

If confirmed by An Bord Pleanála, the CPO will allow Kerry County Council to acquire the land necessary for the project.

(CM/MH)