New 640m greenway opens with link to Dublin Mountains Way
A new 640-metre pedestrian and cycle route in Co Dublin, which also improves access to the Dublin Mountains Way, is now open to the public.
The Whitestown Greenway, officially opened on Monday by the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Pamela Kearns, runs alongside the Whitestown Stream and links Killinarden Park with Sean Walsh Park.
The project is aimed at improving walking and cycling infrastructure in the area. In November last year, it received funding through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht’s Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).
The sum of €300,000 was awarded to South Dublin County Council to oversee the construction of the final section of the Whitestown Greenway.
Speaking at the launch, Mayor Kearns said the new route forms part of a wider network of walking and cycling infrastructure planned for South Dublin.
“This new route enhances connectivity, encourages active travel, and forms a key part of a wider network of existing and planned routes, including the Dodder Greenway, the Citywest to Rathfarnham Cycle Scheme, and the N81 Cycle Scheme,” she said.
“It also improves links to the Dublin Mountains Way, opening further opportunities for recreation and wellbeing.”
The Dublin Mountains are a popular destination for walkers and cyclists, particularly in good weather.
The development includes a new controlled pedestrian crossing at Whitestown Drive to improve safety and accessibility for residents using the route.
Mayor Kearns added that protecting the ecology and biodiversity of the area was an “important consideration” in the development of the new route.
“Over time, the native plant species retained along the greenway will provide valuable habitat to a variety of local birdlife, mammals, insects and other wildlife,” she said.
“A notable design feature is the inclusion of a lighting scheme designed to dim when the route is not in use. This is to protect the natural habitat of bats, which are common along this corridor.”