It's no surprise the Waterford Greenway has proven so popular. But the number of cyclists that have visited it is pretty staggering and far above expectations.
More cyclists than walkers visit Waterford Greenway
The new Waterford Greenway has proven a major hit with cyclists. More people have cycled on the 46km path than walked on it since it opened.
The figures suggest huge untapped potential exists in Ireland for cycling staycations.
New research conducted by Waterford City and County Council reveals almost 250,000 people have visited the Greenway.
And of those, 141,906 have cycled on the greenway since it opening back in March. Surprisingly, the cycling visits are much higher than those by walkers.
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Some 105,639 have walked some or all of the greenway.
Other findings of the survey carried out for the council include:
- 27 per cent of those of cycled hired a bike to do so.
- 94 per cent of visitors described the greenway as excellent or good.
- Two thirds of visitors were the Waterford area.
- All others, but two per cent, were from other parts of Ireland.
- 80 per cent of visitors from outside Waterford stayed in paid accommodation.
- 45 per cent of those who stayed in the area did so in Dungarvan.
- 22 per cent stayed in Waterford City.
- The average spend per person while on the greenway was €28.50.
In total, the greenway cost €15 million to develop. It runs on the old Dungarvan to Waterford railway line.
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Dungarvan was the biggest draw, with 45 per cent of visitors staying there, opposed to 22 per cent in Waterford city and 29 per cent elsewhere in the county. The survey also those who spent money while on the greenway spent an average of €28.50.
Waterford City and County Council chief executive Michael Walsh said the greenway has had a major impact.
“Developing the greenway was a significant but a very worthwhile investment that is having a major economic and social impact across our county, not just during the peak tourist months but throughout the year.
“Waterford is the jewel in the crown along Ireland’s Ancient East and the Waterford Greenway has not just drawn visitors into our county but it has helped us all to take stock and appreciate the fantastic natural amenities we have on our doorstep.
“Again and again, visitors, I’ve met along the route comment on the friendliness of locals and the varied landscape that stretches from the city to the mountains and down to the sea,” said Mr Walsh.
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