A significant new greenway through the west of the Republic has been given the green light after being included in a major new economic plan to develop the north west region.
The 128km Athenry to Sligo Greenway, which is also known
as the ‘Western Rail Trail’, takes in counties Galway, Mayo and Sligo.
It will follow the line of the abandoned rail line from Athenry in Co Galway to Collooney in Co Sligo; a railway line that has been out of commissioned for four decades.
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The Galway section is about 45km long and is known as the ‘Quiet Man Greenway’ because it runs through Ballyglunin railway station, which was made famous by The Quiet Man movie.
The Mayo section is about 47km long and the Sligo part is
36km in length, with all three combining to form the Western Rail Trail.
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The project has now been included in the North West
Regional Authority’s spatial and economic strategy, which was published
yesterday.
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It’s inclusion in the plan is a boost for campaigners and
local people who have campaigned for the greenway to be created.
Inclusion in the plan also means the project is going to
happen as the local authorities in Galway, Sligo and Mayo are now obliged to
work in cooperation to bring the greenway to fruition.
Ciarán Cannon TD, who has campaigned for the project,
side inclusion of the greenway in the new North West Regional Authority’s spatial
and economic strategy means the project is now a key scheme for the region.
While the full 128km route is included in the plan,
Cannon has had a particular interest in the Galway stretch as it is in his
constituency.
“This thumbs up from our regional economic authority
makes this a historic moment for East Galway and for those of us campaigning to
create a significant new amenity which will serve Athenry, Tuam, Milltown and
Ballyglunin,” he said.
“We have consistently argued that the Quiet Man Greenway
will transform our region and this affirmation from the North West Regional
Authority is most welcome.
“We now have a truly ground-breaking commitment and local
authorities must now work collectively and collaboratively to deliver a
greenway that will benefit the people of our region.”
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