Big launch for €550k Laois family cycle trails
Cllr Barry Walsh, cathaoirleach of Laois County Council with the Sheppard family at Dunmore Woods for the launch of the Durrow Community/Family Cycle Trails delivered by Laois County Council on behalf of the Pedal Vintage Durrow Bike Hire Scheme. Photo: Alf Harvey
WORKS are about to begin on a €550k upgrade of local walking trails, to make them suitable for leisure cyclists and vulnerable users.
The Dunmore and Capponellan Trails, both just outside Durrow, are the focus of a development that will enhance up to 10km of trails.
The Durrow Community/Family Cycle Trails project is being carried out by Laois Co Council, in partnership with the Pedal Vintage Durrow community bike hire scheme.
A launch in Dunmore Woods this week marked the commencement of the venture, which aims to deliver ‘an enhanced visitor experience, enhanced safety and greater diversity’ in terms of those enabled to use the popular trails.
Three generations of the Mooney family were among those at the joyful launch in idyllic surroundings on 12 August, together with council Cathaoirleach Cllr Barry Walsh, acting council chief executive Simon Walton, councillors, officials and Pedal Vintage Durrow members and cycling enthusiasts.
The project is funded through the Department of Rural and Community Development's Outdoor Recreation and Infrastructure Fund, with match funding provided by the county council.
The budget is €550k and the council is delivering the project on behalf of the successful grant applicant, the Pedal Vintage Durrow community bike hire scheme.
The bike hire scheme was established by voluntary group Irish Country Roads and Culture Trails, which also organises the annual Bulfin Heritage Cycle Rally as part of Heritage Week.
People can hire bikes and helmets and enjoy guided bike tours along peaceful country roads in the scenic area, with frequent stops for heritage chats and information about local landmarks.
