An old road into Ballyduff that’s been out of use for over 70 years has been restored, thanks to the combined efforts of the local Tidy Towns Committee and Waterford County Council.

The 200 metre stretch, which begins adjacent to the national school and continues down and around to link up with the main road into the village, was completely overgrown and considerable effort was required to cut back trees and shrubs to clear it. In total, it involved three weeks work and the project is now nearing completion.

PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY

A surface of compacted fill has been laid and there only remains to put large stones in place on either end so that vehicles cannot access it, as it is designed for pedestrian use only.

“We are grateful to the county council, it’s due to their goodwill that this project has been completed,” Pat Flynn, chairman of the Tidy Towns group said. Joe O’Keeffe and Noel Lyons agree. They say the council has been very supportive of projects they’ve undertaken to beautify the picturesque village and keep it tidy.

Noel Lyons also extended thanks, on behalf of Tidy Towns, to the two local landowners, the Clancy and Kenneally families, who kindly allowed them clear trees and shrubs from the walkway.  Locals walk a ‘ring’ of four miles around the village but the last part was on the main road. “This will take them off part of the main road,” Noel Lyons explained.

Marian Frewen said they’re now planning to plant daffodils and other flowers along the route, to add to the enjoyment of walkers. The name ‘Barrack Boreen’ is being considered for the village’s newest amenity.