Works at a well-known Kilkenny walkway get the green light

Upgrade works at the Millennium Forest in Co Kilkenny as part of the 'Trail Enhancement and Accessibility Scheme' have been given the green light with works expected to begin later this year.

In 2023, local Fianna Fail Councillor, John Coonan, called for enhancement works to take place at the local walkway, leading to the sourcing of funding and talks between the local authority and Coillte.

Resurfacing of the car park and entrance area, Creation of universal and age-friendly amenity spaces, complete with
dedicated parking for disabled and elderly visitors and improvements to the walking trail are just some of the measures set to be introduced as part of the project.

A wheelchair-accessible toilet has also been installed and will soon be open to the public, alongside an access path to the same.

Assistant Senior Engineer in the Parks Department of Kilkenny County Council, Frank Stafford, confirmed the positive news over the weekend, extending heartfelt thanks to Coillte for their invaluable support and assistance throughout this project.

Cllr John Coonan welcomed the news, stating: "We will be seeking a price to undertake the works later this month, with construction anticipated to begin in early to mid Q2 of this year."

"This ambitious project wouldn't be possible without the support of Kilkenny County Council, who secured funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. With approximately 10% match funding from the Council's own resources, we're proud to invest €227,000 into this public amenity," Mr Coonan added.