Investment part of bigger plan to create Irelands Camino
Local Minister Denis Naughten has confirmed Government investment of €68,000 to develop walking facilities in Castlerea Demesne and a walk for wheelchair users along the Suck Valley Way.
These investments will not only improve local facilities to encourage people to become more active but also enhance the tourism amenities for those visiting Castlerea, Cuisle in Donamon & using the Suck Valley Way.
An allocation of €21, 973 has been allocated to create a walk for wheelchair users along the Suck Valley Way which will build on the funding provided by my Department to the local angling hub to develop wheelchair accessible angling facilities on the River Suck.
The funding of €46,374 is being provided to develop hard surface walking trails in Castlerea Demesne and will build on the work of the local committee in improving the facilities and usage of the fabulous Castlerea Demesne.
“I would actively encourage anybody visiting Castlerea or passing through to stop off and explore this hidden gem in West Roscommon”.
This investment is part of a far broader project which I have been supporting to develop a walking route from West Cork, through East Galway, West & North Roscommon, connecting up the Glens of Antrim called the Beara Breifne Way, which “has the potential to become Ireland’s Camino route”.
This walking and cycling trail is based on the historic march of O’ Sullivan Beara in 1603 and links 60 villages and towns along the spine of the country.
“The villages and towns in County Galway and Roscommon through which the walk/cycle route runs are rich in tradition but have seen limited numbers of tourists. The development of this trail will be a major benefit in attracting tourism to these areas,” stated Denis Naughten.
“When finished the trail will link with the Ulster Way in Blacklion, giving a walking trail from the southern tip of County Cork to the Glens of Antrim. As a result this trail has the potential to be Ireland’s Camino due to its length and heritage.
“We have already seen the Wild Atlantic Way become a great success for the west coast. The Beara Breifne Way could do the same for the centre of the country if developed fully, and that is why I’ve continued to secure Government support for the project, since my appointment.
“The trail goes through 10 counties and four provinces and is based on the heritage and culture of our country and will benefit over 60 communities along the route. According to a report done for West Cork Leader in 2013 the first section of the Beara Breifne Way along the Beara Peninsula is worth up to €8 million to the local economy each year.
“Therefore it has the potential to provide a much needed cash injection to communities in Roscommon, East Galway & Leitrim which are struggling to maintain local services,” concluded Denis Naughten.