4 days ago
Landmark Cavan tourism amenity and country's fifth most visited forest park primed for significant infrastructural upgrade
Local authority bosses, in partnership with State forestry company Coillte, have announced plans to carry out the upgrade at Killykeen Forest Park.
The current bridge at the 240 acre park was originally constructed in the early 1990s, creating a vital link between Killeshandra and the forest park.
The facility's ever increasing popularity coincided in its naming last August as the fifth most visited forest park in the country.
That rise to prominence on foot of its near 90,000 annual visitors allied to years of exposure to the elements necessitated the need for an upgrade, council bosses said.
"The bridge's timber components now require replacement, and its narrow width has become unsuitable for the growing number of users, particularly cyclists,' said a spokesperson.
"These upgrades will see the install of a wider pedestrian bridge, appropriately designed to sit in this beautiful and special landscape and will meet the demands of increased usage, ensuring it continues to serve as a key connector within the park.'
In a move to reduce onsite disruption, the main construction of the new bridge structure will be carried out off-site with a pontoon being inserted across the water as a 'temporary measure' in order to maintain accessibility during the project.
"This will allow uninterrupted access for walkers, runners, and cyclists using the popular Killykeen Way, which connects the forest park to Killeshandra,' added the spokesperson.
To protect the surrounding environment, a suite of measures will be taken to minimise ecological impact during construction, the council have maintained.
Brendan Jennings, Director of Services, Cavan County Council said the six week estimated project which is due to get underway in just over a week's time could not be understated.
'This project represents an important investment in local infrastructure and recreational amenity,' he said.
'The refurbished footbridge will enhance the user experience, preserve access to beloved local trails, and ensure that Killykeen Forest Park remains a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.'
