Greenway mooted to go along ulster canal from castle saunderson to clones

The development of a so-called Greenway to compliment the Ulster Canal between Castle Saunderson and Clones has been mooted by politicians and members of a cross boarder body today (Thursday).

The off-road cycling and walking facilities alongside the same route of the canal was discussed at a meeting between officials from Monaghan County Council and Waterways Ireland.

Today’s meeting examined how Waterways Ireland could support Monaghan County Council in developing the greenway along the Ulster Canal following Minister Humphreys’ recent announcement that she has secured Government approval for the restoration of the canal from Upper Lough Erne to Castle Saunderson.

Heritage Minister Heather Humphreys welcomed today's developments, saying she was “very keen to maximise the positive benefits of the Ulster Canal for the local community'.

'The development of a cycle path and walkway along the route of the canal as far as Clones would be a great resource for the local area. Not only would it benefit people living locally in Cavan and Monaghan, it would also be a great boost to the tourism sector in the region.

“I am very pleased that Waterways Ireland is working closely with Monaghan County Council on this project. By collaborating on the project, the two bodies will deliver the best result for the locality.

“It’s also a great example of the tangible benefits of cross border cooperation, as Waterways Ireland is an all-island body. The restoration of the Ulster Canal will have a very positive impact on the economic and social development of local communities along its route and I look further to receiving further updates on the development of the cycle path and walkway.”