Inset: Directors of Cootehill Area Development study the plans for the area, left to right: Niall Hannigan, Treasurer; Vincent McCaul; Malachy Magee; Vera Greenan, Secretary; and Michael McCarey. (missing: Una Smith, Chairperson, and Margaret Hartnett, Director) Photo: Brian Mulligan

Buyers plan to develop amenities at Halton's

Published: Wed 23 Nov 2011, 5:30 PM

Cootehill Area Development Ltd have purchased 8.15 acres of mature woodland at the Cavan Monaghan border from Coillte with the intention of enhancing it and providing safer access including provision of a footbridge linking both counties together with new foothpaths, lighting and parking. The site of the planned new social infrastructure is beside Cootehill's largest employer, Abbotts. The area, known locally as Halton's, is a stunningly scenic spot on the outskirts of the town. Already used for walks, cycling, picnics and general leisure, the development is expected to be a significant boost to its recreational appeal. Both Cavan and Monaghan county councils are providing technical support and are looking after 'Part 8' planning for the project which the group hope to complete with the help of Cavan Monaghan Leader funding. "It is hoped to develop a sustainable travel project in the area, with Cootehill having been identified by the NRA on an East/West National Cycle route planned along the proposed Strategic Road linking Dundalk to Cavan," according to Malachy Magee who is coordinating the project. "A covered bicycle stand for 10 bicycles will be installed shortly together with new waste and recycle bins thanks to Monaghan County Council," said Malachy. Tanagh outdoor educational centre currently use this area for canoeing and boating and Cavan Monaghan safety swim takes place every year in this area of natural beauty. The directors of Cootehill Area Development are: Una Smith chairperson, Michael McCarey vice chairman, Vera Greenan secretary, Niall Hannigan treasurer, Malachy Magee project co-ordinator, Margaret Harnett and Vincent McCaul. Cootehill Area Development - a community company which has charitable status and was formed back in 2000 - previously purchased and fully developed The White Star complex on Market street which is used by community groups and currently has The Holy family School as its main tenant. For more stories from the Cootehill area (with a five-page feature this week) see this week's Anglo-Celt.