Pictures: New walking trail and a raft of enhancements open at Jenkinstown Woods in Kilkenny

A new walking trail and various enhancements have been unveiled at Jenkinstown Woods in Kilkenny by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary.

The enhancements aim to increase accessibility, promote physical activity, and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the area. The redevelopment at Jenkinstown Wood includes rehabilitation of existing looped trails, the creation of a new fully accessible 1.2km route, upgraded signage, an access ramp connecting to the car park to the enhanced picnic, and age-friendly and wheel-chair accessible seating.

The newly-created trail has been named The Last Rose of Summer Walk - a tribute to one of Ireland’s most cherished poets, Thomas Moore who wrote his famous poem of the same name while staying in Jenkinstown in 1805.

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Jenkinstown Wood, Minister Calleary said facilities like the woods are vital to local communities.

"They promote both physical and mental wellbeing, support rural tourism, and bring people together," he said. "I am particularly pleased to see the commitment shown by Kilkenny County Council and their project partners Coillte in delivering such a high-quality, inclusive outdoor space.”
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Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Michael McCarthy, who addressed the gathering, highlighted the community and cultural significance of the project.

“This project is about more than poetry and pathways – it’s about people," he said. "It’s about encouraging outdoor activity, improving access for people of all ages and abilities and it’s a about listening to the needs of our communities.”

Also speaking at the event, the vice-chair of the Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick said it was a proud moment not only for the council and all involved, but for the wider North Kilkenny area.

"Jenkinstown Wood is a place of natural beauty, steeped in local history, and beloved by both residents and visitors," he said.

"Thanks to this major investment, it has been reimagined, renewed, and made more inclusive for everyone.”

Daithi de Ford, Head of Recreation with Coillte and Frank Stafford of the Kilkenny County Council’s Capital Delivery Office and Parks Department, also spoke at the event with the latter.

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“The success of this project, and other similar projects, would not be possible without partnership," he said. "I want to acknowledge the significant funding provided under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, and I thank Minister Calleary and his Department for same. This grant aid, along with the match funding from Kilkenny County Council realises a total investment of €230,000 into this amenity and it’s an investment that really adds value to the visitors’ enjoyment and experience.”

The event concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, and cutting of the official re-opening ribbon by Minister Calleary in the presence of the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Michael McCarthy and Chair  of the Castlecomer Municipal District Mary Hilda Cavanagh.