Plans lodged for local walking trail, memorial garden and bridge project
A key feature of the project is the planned construction of a new pedestrian suspension bridge across the River Suck.
Plans for a significant community-led tourism and recreation project involving a walking trail, memorial garden and pedestrian bridge have been lodged with Roscommon County Council.
The Athleague Tidy Towns and We Are Athleague groups have submitted the proposals that would serve to create a new accessible walking route linking the village's Circle of Life Park with a proposed memorial garden and a range of visitor amenities.
The proposed development includes the construction of an accessible walking trail incorporating new pedestrian pathways, upgraded farm tracks, raised walkways and boardwalk structures designed to improve access through the area.
A key feature of the project is the planned construction of a new pedestrian suspension bridge across the River Suck. The bridge would include supporting structures, abutments, balustrades and associated infrastructure, providing a new link along the route.
Plans also provide for the development of a bird hide, viewing deck, seating areas, interpretation features and other visitor facilities aimed at enhancing the area's recreational and tourism appeal.
The application outlines proposals for a new memorial garden featuring landscaping works, planting, seating and associated amenities. Additional works include the installation of gates, fencing, access controls, wayfinding signage and visitor information points throughout the route.
The community groups are also proposing biodiversity enhancement measures, including native tree and plant species, habitat creation initiatives and ecological mitigation works. Existing access tracks would be upgraded through resurfacing, drainage improvements and accessibility measures.
Associated works would include flood management measures, drainage infrastructure, landscaping, site development and ancillary works.
The proposed development is located within the River Suck Callows Special Protection Area (SPA) and the Suck River Callows Natural Heritage Area (NHA), both of which are recognised for their ecological importance.
The plans, which are at pre-validation stage, note that the route passes through recorded earthworks and the zone of notification associated with a number of archaeological and historical features, including a road or trackway, ford, graveyard, mills, church, castle, fortified house, bawn and walled garden.
A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development and has been submitted as part of the planning application process to assess any potential impacts on protected habitats and species.
County planners are due to make a decision on the plans by November 11th.
