Three projects to improve walking and equestrian trails were supported, along with an additional scheme to explore design solutions to improve access to Blue Flag beaches in West Cork. Approximately €633,490 has been awarded to support the projects, with Cork County Council funding the balance to a total fund in excess of €700,000.
Ireland's first horse-trail, the Beara Bridle Way, will be extended from Urhan to Ardgroom following old tracks and woodland. Parking for horse boxes is available in the village of Ardgroom and riders can leave their horses in a field across from a shop and restaurants. The new section will also complete a loop in Teernahillane between Castletownbere and Allihies.
Funding of €200,000 has been provided to upgrade and repair the Barnane Trail Walk and Glenabo Trail, which form part of the Blackwater Way, while allowing users to experience the natural environment along a rural scenic section of the River Blackwater. The improvement works will address the existing deficits and strengthen the trail walk with Cork County Council consulting and collaborating with Avondhu Blackwater Partnership CLG on the project.
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A 2.2km coastal walk in Little Island will also be upgraded to provide a safe walking route for local residents and employees from nearby companies. A two-metre-wide path will be created along the length of the Carrigrenan Amenity Walkway, overlooking Cork Harbour. Additional parking will be provided along with benches, lifebelts and signage.
A grant of €50,000 has also been provided to carry out a feasibility study about access for people with disabilities to Barleycove, Owenahincha, Inchydoney, Garrylucas and Garretstown beaches.
Welcoming the announcement, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Gillian Coughlan said: "I'm delighted that four fantastic projects across County Cork have been chosen. The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme aims to make rural Ireland a more attractive destination for adventure tourism and that’s what we want to achieve. We want visitors to County Cork to stay longer but we also want to provide the very best amenities for our local communities. The first phase of the Beara Bridle Way opened during 2020 and is attracting visitors all year round while the next phase will add 14km and there are long-term plans to create a trail that would take four days to ride. I know that enhancing the walks along the Blackwater River and overlooking Cork Harbour at Little Island will mean that the routes can be enjoyed by even more people."
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey added: "The inclusion of projects that are at an early stage of development is very welcome. The funding will allow us to establish how disabled access and services can be improved at five Blue Flag beaches in West Cork. The results gathered in West Cork will help us to improve access for all at other beaches countywide in the future. Over the past two-years, outdoor activities like walking, hiking, swimming and horse riding have become a bigger part of all our lives. We want to ensure that our beaches, walkways and other amenities are as accessible as possible to everyone who wants to use them."
The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.
