2 milestone projects in County Cork – phase 1 of the Midleton to Youghal (MY) Greenway and Cobh’s newest Safe Route to School – were recently officially opened by the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn and Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers TD.
Phase 1 of MY Greenway stretches 8km from Midleton Train Station to Mogeely, marking the first step in the vision of establishing a 23km greenway network connecting key towns and villages along the former railway line. This transformative project promises enhanced connectivity and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
This facility is now open to the public, with a commitment made to the implementation of an Interpretation Strategy for the overall Greenway to highlight the biodiversity of the area and the railway history of the line to provide an engaging and memorable visitor experience.
Another key event during the Minister’s recent visit to Cork was the official opening of the Safe Route to Schools project at Scoil Iosaef Naofa Boys National School, St. Mary’s Girls National School and Coláiste Muire Co-Educational Secondary School.
The Safe Route to Schools work carried out in the Bishops Street area, known locally as the “top of the hill,” at these three schools sees 1,224 students and circa 122 staff travelling in the morning and afternoons during school term.
To the front of Scoil Iosaef Naofa, widened footpaths and a narrowed carriageway have been created to slow traffic speeds on the approach to the school. Greater congregation space has been developed for children, parents, and guardians to create a safer and more inviting space at the front of the school.
Colourful art has been added to the footpaths and road space and pencil shaped bollards have been placed at the edge of the widened paths, creating a more exciting journey to school for those who choose to walk, cycle or scoot, while also preventing cars from parking on the widened footpaths.
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT
Mayor O’Flynn welcomed the progress on the Greenway development.
“This Greenway, on completion, will form part of the Pathfinder project providing cycle connectivity between Cork and Waterford and will also be incorporated into the EuroVelo 1 route.
“The quality of the infrastructure and ease of access will improve the environment of the towns and villages along the way, making it more attractive to opt for sustainable transport modes for daily activities as well as meeting the needs of local communities in terms of health, fitness, and connection to nature.”
 Greenway and Cobh’s newest Safe Route to School – were recently officially opened by the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn and Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers TD.){kind=link}