Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD visited the site of the project on Friday 28 April to declare the first phase open.
The 3km greenway provides a high-quality recreational and commuter corridor between Cork City Docklands and Mahon tracing the route of the 19th century Cork, Blackrock, and Passage Railway line. The greenway provides a wider and more accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy. It includes new and improved access ramps, extensive planting of over 2,000 new trees alongside a wide range of other pollinator-friendly planting, environmentally sensitive lighting, play and rest features as well as the restoration of historic railway structures including some of the finest examples of stone-cut bridges in the State.
The greenway project builds on the ambitious plans for the redevelopment of Cork Docklands which is one of the largest regeneration sites in the country. It follows the pedestrianisation of the Marina in 2020 and the opening of Phase 1 of Marina Park last year. Later this year construction is scheduled to commence on the revamped Marina between Cork Docklands and Blackrock Village and Phase 2 & 3 of the Marina Park which will add a further 56 acres to the already complete 14 acres.
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Welcoming the launch of the first phase of the greenway, An Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD said: "This is an exciting day for Cork as we officially open the first phase of the Cork City to Passage West Greenway, which we can already see is being warmly welcomed by local communities and visitors to Cork City. This project forms part of a series of investments across Cork City demonstrating Government's commitment to creating and developing a sustainable way of living for future generations."
Lord Mayor, Cllr Deirdre Forde commented: "I am delighted to join in the celebrations today as Phase 1 of the Cork City to Passage Greenway is opened. Over the last number of years, we have truly learnt the value of connecting with nature and spending quality time with our family and friends. The opening of our greenway will allow us to reconnect with nature, explore some of Cork City's fascinating historic features and introduce more opportunities to play. Cork City Council is undertaking a series of exciting and transformative projects including the Cork Docklands, the Marina Park re-development alongside, and the upgrading of the Cork City to Passage West Greenway – these projects will transform the area for users of these much-loved amenities – creating a more vibrant and inclusive amenity with sustainability at its heart."
Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Ann Doherty added: "Today's opening of Phase 1 of the Cork City to Passage Greenway is a hugely positive news as we start to enjoy the longer evenings. This 3km greenway provides improved access, additional opportunities for young and old(er) to play whilst prioritising sustainability, one of Cork City Council's key strategic priorities."
The works were designed by Clifton Scannell Emerson Associates and constructed by Ward and Burke Construction Ltd with funding provided by the National Transport Authority under the Active Travel Programme.
