Further expansion of Achill Greenway goes to tender

Mayo Fine Gael, TD, Alan Dillon has announced that a further extension of the Achill Greenway has gone to tender.

Deputy Dillon said the extension of the Greenway from Cashel to Bunacurry has now gone to tender and work will progress following the completion of the section through Achill Sound village, which is due to finish in early 2024.

Deputy Dillon said: “It is welcome news that the 5km stretch of new Greenway from Cashel to Bunacurry will progress to design and construction once a contract has been awarded. Tenders are also being sought for the supply and delivery of greenway furniture on this stretch of the Greenway. This will include the provision of recycling bins, picnic tables, benches and signage bollards along the project.”

The Chair of the Fine Gael parliamentary party added: “Work on the Great Western Greenway is continuing at speed. Just last September, a new 5km stretch linking Achill Sound to Cashel was officially opened by Minister of State, Jack Chambers.

Work is currently being completed on the half kilometre extension through Achill Sound village and is expected to be completed in January 2024. This will bring the stretch of Greenway from Westport to Achill to 49km with a further 5km extension next year, bringing it into Bunnacurry.

“Currently over €4m has been spent to date on the construction of the extension to Cashel which was opened earlier this year. This latest project will further enhance the tourist offering in the area and much credit must be given to the engineering and outdoor staff of Mayo County Council who continue to extend and expand the facility. This is already a fabulous piece of tourism infrastructure between Westport to Cashel which uses a bespoke 400m boardwalk that crosses a portion of blanket bog, which is unique to Ireland.

“I really look forward to this Greenway taking further shape over the coming months, the benefits of which will be seen in tourist facilities, bringing vital employment and helping the local towns and villages in West Mayo to thrive,” Deputy Dillon concluded.