Cork County Council has announced that the second and final phase of the Midleton Youghal Greenway will open to the public this Thursday, December 19th, with the new section – which extends from Mogeely through Killeagh to Youghal – opening from midday.
The 23km off-road walking and cycling route travels through the heart of east Cork and links up with Midleton Station, allowing for direct onward connection with Cork city and beyond.
Members of the public will be able to access the Greenway through the trailheads at Midleton Station, Mogeely, Killeagh and through the MacCurtainstown Car Park in Youghal.
Trees and hedgerows have been retained along the Greenway and a significant programme of native planting has enhanced biodiversity. The former station areas have also been transformed to create attractive places for both the local community and visitors to enjoy. The Council recognises the extensive consultation and engagement by both farmers and property owners adjoining the Greenway and has endeavoured to ensure that throughout the process, concerns were listened to and addressed where reasonably practicable.
The Greenway will integrate with existing and planned cycle infrastructure in the west towards Cork City and east towards Waterford. It will also form part of the EuroVelo 1 route.
THANKS TO ENGAGEMENT FROM PROPERTY OWNERS
Chief executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell noted that the project “aims to meet the needs of local communities in terms of active travel, recreation, well-being and connection to nature”.
“This project is possible thanks to the support of the Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, as well as collaboration with Iarnród Éireann. We would also like to acknowledge the support and engagement from the farmers and property owners adjoining the Greenway throughout.”
The first phase, from Midleton to Mogeely, was officially opened in March of this year and the formal official opening of the full Midleton Youghal Greenway will take place in early 2025.
