This article is from page 67 of the 2008-08-05 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 67 JPG
PLANS are underway to establish a walking trail in the Shannon and Bunratty areas.
It has been suggested that the trail will be in the shape of a loop, tak- ing in Shannon and Bunratty and also linking up with the Mid-Clare Walkway.
A public meeting took place in Shannon a number of weeks ago, during which a high level of inter- est in the proposal was expressed. Locals felt that it would be a huge boost to the Shannon area, while it would also play a significant role in promoting the town on national and
international levels.
It was suggested that a plan for the initiative would be drawn up and that is now underway.
The proposal is the brainchild of the managing director of the Oak- wood Arms Hotel in Shannon, Victor O’Sullivan. He said if the plan gets the go-ahead, it would be the first of its kind in this geographical area.
“It would be the first one for Shan- non. It is something that is badly needed and would make good use of the Shannon estuary banks. A lot of the walk is there already. I was hop- ing to create a full extensive loop,’ said Mr O’Sullivan.
“It would be a great opportunity for
tourism,” he said.
What has been suggested is a 10 kilometre trek, which would appeal to both local residents and tourists alike.
A route would have to be mapped out, while the issue of crossing the R471 would also have to be ad- dressed, prior to any final decision being made.
Cyril Killeen, who is the walks of- ficer for Clare, said the proposal is currently being considered.
“We are assessing the facilities for developing a walking trail in Shan- non and surrounding areas. We are looking at developing a loop in the town and out to Bunratty and up to
link with the mid-Clare way and Newmarket-on-Fergus,’ said Mr Killeen.
“It can happen. It will take time. If you are crossing into private land, it can take a long time, depending on how easy you get access,” said the PN eme Noe
He said that the possibility of set- ting up walkways in other parts of the county, including west Clare, the Burren and Ennis, has also been mooted.
“We are trying to get walks all over the county,’ added Mr Killeen.
It is hoped that Shannon Develop- ment or Failte Ireland could play some role in funding the project.