A new walking trail is being designed to link Glengarriff village to the Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has started the process of designing the key pedestrian link to create a safe route and eliminate risks along the busy N71, especially during peak season, Minister for Nature Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan says.

'I am focused on extending the accessibility of our nature reserves so more people can experience the joy of nature. My department’s overall plans for the site are exciting, and options for the exact route are currently being defined,' Minister O’Sullivan said.

'Glengarriff is known as a paradise for locals, international walkers and nature lovers alike, and is a key staging post on the Beara Way and the Beara-Breifne Way.

'This new walkway will be invaluable for the community, prioritising pedestrian safety by keeping people off the busy stretch of road, and also providing the community with a direct link to natural beauty and biodiversity of Glengarriff Nature Reserve.'

Today’s announcement follows last month’s announcement of the acquisition of White’s Marsh near Clonakilty by the NPWS and official opening of two pedestrian and cycle routes in West Cork - the extension to the Clare O’Leary walkway in Bandon and the N71 Gallanes Active Travel project just outside Clonakilty.

Minister O’Sullivan concluded 'We’re making it easier for everyone to experience the great outdoors in West Cork — from residents to visitors.'