GREENWAYS AND RURAL LOOPS

​Now that the train is gone, we must remember that we still have the rail corridor itself; its landscape and its infrastructure. We also still have the towns and villages, but their needs are no longer being met. Business growth and tourists are seldom to be seen. The generation of a greenway on the route solves this problem. Employment, tourism and the health and mental benefits of a local amenity follows as sure as day follows night.


Another potential benefit of greenways in local communities is the option to create loop walks and cycleways to parishes and villages not directly on the route of the greenway. In the case of South Sligo, loops taking in rural laneways and village pubs in places such as Rockfield (Coolaney), Cloonacool and Curry can be easily created. This new activity has proven results and show great gains for hard-pressed rural businesses. Very rural communities and landscapes in Co Sligo will then have the opportunity to display their many charms to visitors from all over the world.


The further development of this disused line (Coolooney to Athenry) will provide the opportunity to develop such life giving arterial loops bringing revitalisation to Easy Mayo, and North Galway. The infrastructure is there, the climate is right and the need is great!