A greenway which travels through the heart of east Cork has opened fully to walkers and cyclists.
The second and final phase of the 23km Midleton Youghal Greenway became accessible to the public at midday on Thursday.
This follows the completion of the last 15km stretch of the route from Mogeely to Youghal.
Members of the public can 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 been undertaken.
Mayor of Co Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll, hopes that the greenway will become a “must-visit destination” within Ireland’s Ancient East.
“It complements and enhances the existing tourism offering in the county, allowing visitors to explore East Cork in a safe, off-road and traffic free environment. We hope the greenway will also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and tourism development," he said.
"By attracting visitors from near and far, the greenway will stimulate local business and create opportunities in the hospitality, retail, and service sectors to boost tourism revenue and revitalise our towns and villages.”
Chief executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell said the project aims to meet the needs of local communities in terms of active travel, recreation, well-being and connection to nature.
Meanwhile, the council says that it recognises the ‘extensive consultation and engagement” by both farmers and property owners adjoining the greenway.
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. The first stage of the greenway opened in March.
