Finucane & Sons Civil Engineering Ltd has completed an 830-metre pedestrian walkway in Millstreet, Cork, running from Drishane Castle to Coole and forming part of a popular looped walking route.

The project also included the replacement of 60 metres of existing tarmac path and the installation of solar-powered street lighting.

The scheme was developed in partnership with Millstreet Tidy Towns, who approached the landowner and secured planning permission. Funding of €120,000 was provided through the Community Recognition Fund, supported by Cork County Council, which matched the grant.

The project received additional support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, recognising local efforts in accommodating arrivals from Ukraine and other countries. At the time, Millstreet hosted over 300 Ukrainian residents.

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The walkway was officially opened on October 10 by Cllr Martin Coughlan, Deputising for the Mayor of Cork, Dara Calleary TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Moira Murrell, Chief Executive of Cork County Council.

Cllr Martin Coughlan said: “This collaborative community project has proved to be a huge success for the town of Millstreet. I would like to thank Millstreet Tidy Towns for all their work. It provides a great social outlet for locals to meet and go for a walk and to enjoy the wonderful scenery of Clara Mountain in the background.  This project has provided huge benefits for the area to include increases in wellbeing, community spirit and integration. It is being widely used and has received hugely positive feedback locally.”

Meanwhile, Moira Murrell highlighted the importance of the walkway for both connectivity and visual appeal, noting it links key local points including the Boeing Amenity Area and Millstreet Train Station, while providing a safe pedestrian route to Drishane Castle and Coole.