The development of a greenway linking Mallow and Dungarvan moved a step closer to reality this week when Cork Co. Council announced that it will link up with Waterford City and County Council to examine the feasibility of a greenway linking the two counties. The potential greenway would be developed along a 77.35km stretch of scenic countryside adjacent to the River Blackwater, incorporating stunning scenery and using viaduct crossings at key landmark locations. The route under consideration would run from Mallow to Fermoy, and on to Dungarvan where it could link up with the Waterford Greenway which has proved a major tourist attraction since opening in 2017.
Funding of €361,238 for the feasibility project has been awarded to the two councils by the Department of Transport, under the Strategy for the Future Development of National and Regional Green-ways. Cork Co. Council will act as the lead authority to carry out the required management responsibilities for the feasibility study, including the formal appointment of project consultants.
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, said, “This is an opportunity to develop a strategic, sustainable and captivating greenway that links the beautiful countryside at the heart of Munster to the scenic coast of Waterford, and beyond. We look forward to seeing the results of the study and would like to thank the Department of Transport for the funding that has allowed us to explore this exciting project in greater detail.”
As part of the initial steps in the development of the feasibility study, the local authorities are launching an online public consultation to seek the views of the general public. The consultation will provide information on the vision for the greenway, and other keys details being considered during the initial feasibility route option assessment study. Members of the public are invited to visit www.corkrdo.ie/greenways   to submit their comments online. A local awareness campaign will also be undertaken.