Trail restoration on Miners’ Way completed

A trail enhancement project on the Miners’ Way & Historical Trail in North Roscommon has been completed.

The Roscommon LEADER Partnership project, supported under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), involved the airlifting of stone to remote, hard-to-access sections of the trail, significantly improving safety and accessibility for walkers and hikers.

“The project, which focused on a rugged stretch of trail in County Roscommon, demonstrates the continued commitment of Roscommon LEADER Partnership to preserving and enhancing outdoor recreational amenities. The use of helicopter airlifts to deliver stone to elevated or otherwise inaccessible areas was both a logistical and environmental success, ensuring minimal disturbance to the landscape while providing much-needed surfacing to eroded trail sections,” said Martina Earley, CEO of Roscommon LEADER Partnership.

“This was a challenging but hugely rewarding project,” said the CEO.

“Thanks to ORIS funding, we were able to carry out high-quality restoration work that ensures the trail remains safe and enjoyable for locals and visitors alike, while also respecting the natural environment.” The Miners’ Way & Historical Trail is walking route in North Roscommon tracing the paths once used by miners travelling between the coal mining villages of Arigna and neighbouring counties.

Rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, the trail attracts thousands of walkers every year and plays a significant role in local tourism and community wellbeing.

“By restoring key sections of the trail, this project enhances the experience for users and supports local economic development through increased footfall and tourism-related activity,” said Ms Earley. “The improvements will also help reduce environmental degradation and preserve the trail for future generations.” Roscommon LEADER Partnership thanks all stakeholders involved in the successful delivery of this project, including local contractors, community groups, and landowners who supported access and cooperation throughout the work.

*The ORIS scheme, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, is a key initiative under the Government’s “Our Rural Future” policy and supports projects that improve outdoor recreational infrastructure, contributing to vibrant, sustainable rural communities.

* For more information about this and other trail initiatives in County Roscommon, please visit www.rosleaderpartnership.ie.