Clare County Council has welcomed the allocation of €150,000 to progress the design and planning phase of the proposed Droichead na nGabhar accessibility link in Ennis.

The funding, awarded under Category 1A of the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund, was announced on 14 September 2026 by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

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The project would create a safe, dedicated off-road walking and cycling route connecting John O'Sullivan Park at Lees Road with residential areas on the Gort Road. It includes a new bridge over the River Fergus, segregated from road traffic, to enhance access for walkers, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

Welcoming the decision, Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle, said: "I am delighted to see funding approved for the design and planning stage of this important project. Droichead na nGabhar has the potential to be a transformative link, improving access to the fantastic facilities at Lees Road and making it easier and safer for people of all ages and abilities to travel between local communities and Ennis town."