Major step forward for key tourism project in North Mayo
Downpatrick Head was described as an iconic signature point on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Councillors from Ballina Municipal District have adopted a planning report for a major tourism amenity in North Mayo.
The Céide Coastal Walkway is a proposed 16km walking trail along the coastline connecting the Céide Fields to Downpatrick Head.
The proposed project will also include the construction of walking trail infrastructure such as a trailhead, signage, safety fencing and 11 trail bridges.
Fine Gael Cllr Jarlath Munnelly proposed adopting the Part 8 report at last week's municipal meting, saying the project is a good example of the council working with landowners to achieve its goals. The council consulted and came to an agreement with 27 landowners in relation to the project.
“This is a huge step and it shouldn’t be underestimated because you look at the other part of the county and there’s another recreation project that people are at loggerheads over,” he said, referring to the ongoing dispute in West Mayo over the Murrisk greenway.
“This will only work as a walkway with the agreement of the landowners and that’s really important to emphasise. The council isn’t going to buy or compulsorily purchase any of this land, it’s in agreement with the landowners.
“This project was started by the local community, working with the landowners, and it’s the correct way to start a project like this."
He praised council staff, particularly Peter McCormick from the tourism section and district architect Robbie Maguire. Last year, the council submitted to the Government a funding application for €200,000 for the Céide Coastal Walkway. Cllr Munnelly said he anticipates this funding stream will follow now that the Part 8 report is adopted.
Independent Cllr Mark Duffy said the project will be of great benefit to tourism in north Mayo.
“Downpatrick Head is an iconic signature point and a fabulous asset to this part of the world.”
Fianna Fáil Cllr Michael Loftus welcomed the project but said Downpatrick Head still lacks toilet facilities, adding that this was "the only negative thing" he had to say about the project.
Independent Cllr Seamus Weir welcomed the project but hoped progress could soon be made on a walking trail in Pontoon.
