Green light for Tipperary loop walk extension despite local objections
A much-loved Tipperary loop walk is set to get an extension after planning permission was granted to construct a new walkway on lands owned by Bord na Móna.
Bord na Móna Energy Ltd applied to Tipperary County Council build a recreational shared cycle and walkway to connect into the existing Loch Dhoire Bhile Loop near the village of Glengoole.
The Loch Dhoire Bhile Loop walk is a 2.4km looped walk that follows bog roadways and green tracks long streams a lakeshore on old Bord na Móna lands.
The development includes 602 metres of former rail bed, 2,859 metres along bog headlands, and 721 metres of machine access routes repurposed as a walkway. Car and bicycle parking, along with EV charging spaces, will also be provided at several gateway points.
The local access road to the site will also be upgraded, while wayfinding and interpretative signage, and fencing where needed will also be provided.
The development forms part of the Midlands Trails Network, which aims to deliver strategic walking and cycling infrastructure throughout the midland counties of Tipperary, Offaly, Roscommon, Longford, and Westmeath.
A number of objections to the proposed development were received, with concerns being raised about the potential for degradation of natural habitats, the potential for congestion at peak times, and traffic safety.
One objector, Hugh Rodgers, said that there isn’t enough capacity for the local population at present, and the proposed plans do nothing to address this.
"The potential for increased foot and bike traffic may lead to congestion at gateway points, particularly during peak usage times. The proposed amenities do not adequately serve the local population’s needs or address existing infrastructure shortcomings,” Mr Rodgers said.
"The surrounding area lacks adequate access roads, and the influx of visitors could create congestion and safety issues. The focus on recreational development will divert resources from essential community services, such as public transport and existing local businesses, which will suffer from decreased accessibility,” he added.
Another objection from Kathleen and Austin Cooney raised concerns about the potential for anti-social behaviour on the site.
"The car park will be used by people to gather and loiter, so there would be a high probability of anti-social behaviour, litter and noise in the area,” they said.
"A quiet residential area will be disrupted with no benefit to the local community,” they added.
Tipperary County Council granted permission for the development subject to 10 conditions, including that noise and dust be kept to a minimum throughout the duration of works.
Other conditions included that Bord na Móna employ an architect to oversee the works, that surplus excavated material on the site be reused elsewhere, and that any noisy works be carried out between the hours of 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 2pm on Saturdays and bank holidays.