This article is from page 28 of the 2008-06-10 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 28 JPG
IN the unlikely event of a tree falling in the forest at Ballycuggaran, there will now definitely be someone there to hear it.
Coullte are putting the final touches to a scheme which has opened up the magnificent views and provided rest- ing places for weary feet as well as healthy walks.
The woodlands have long been a favourite place for picnics and walks, but having spent in excess of €15,000 on ground works and adding ameni- ties, Coillte have made it possible to walk up to eight kilometres with lots of loop walks and shorter strolls.
The graded walk, which is located just outside Two Mile Gate, will pro- vide a focal point for tourists as well as a valuable amenity for the people of east Clare.
“We did the ground work and opened up the walks and views. We put in seats at strategic viewing points – people get weary when they walk for a bit and this way, they get a rest and a view,” said Christy O’ Dea, of Coillte in Scariff.
The work has also included putting in two small new car parks and pic- nic tables at strategic locations.
In keeping with Coillte policy, the existing conifer trees will be gradu- ally replaced with broadleaf species
which have already been planted in some parts, including oak, ash, alder, beech and hazel.
The new walkway was made pos- sible thanks to a new funding initia- tive announced by Failte Ireland and Coulte last year. In the programme, some €5.3 million in funding has been allocated to help create an up- gerade facilities across the country.
The initiative will focus on provid- ing outdoor recreation facilities for walkers and cyclists across the coun- try and aims at creating some 250km of walking, hiking and biking trails at 34 sites.
Sadly, despite all the good work, selfish litter droppers are costing
Coulte €25,000 a year.
“It’s not just the cost – it’s the em- barrassment of having to ask some- one to deal with litter created by a third party. The motto is “Leave No Trace’, said Christy.
And that includes doggy-do. “One person comes along with two big dogs and the next person comes along with two small children. I’ll say no more other than take home anything you bring with you.”