The West Clare Railway Greenway project aims to provide a recreational greenway, following the route of the former West Clare Railway, where feasible. This recreational greenway has the potential to connect towns and villages along the route, including Ennis, Corofin, Ennistymon, Lahinch, Miltown Malbay, Quilty, Mullagh, Doonbeg, Kilkee, Moyasta, and Kilrush. The West Clare Railway Greenway project will mainly be used for recreational purposes by pedestrians, cyclists, and people with impaired mobility. 

​

It is anticipated that the provision of a greenway in this location will provide enhanced access to the wider region,  highlighting the importance of this sustainable visitor attraction while also bringing awareness to the built heritage and environment that is located throughout the region of West Clare. The project also provides the opportunity to highlight the historical and educational significance of such places, whilst promoting modes of active travel and the scenic nature of the surrounding area. 

​

Project Objectives

Investment in walking and cycling is a key policy objective of the Government. The National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-2030 recognises the importance of active travel not only in reducing carbon emissions, but also in achieving other national strategic outcomes such as compact urban growth and balanced regional development. Other national policy, such as the Climate Action Plan, the Strategy for the Future Development of National and Regional Greenways, and the National Physical Activity Plan highlight the multi-faceted benefits provided by active travel investment, including carbon emission reductions, physical and mental health benefits, tourism and improvements to accessibility and social inclusion.

​

The objectives for the proposed greenway have been developed in accordance with the seven appraisal headings identified in the Department of Transport’s “Transport Appraisal Framework (TAF) (June 2023)”