'A must-visit destination': Final leg of East Cork greenway opens to the public this week 

Cyclists and walking enthusiasts will be able to travel through the heart of East Cork from tomorrow when the second and final stretch of the Midleton to Youghal greenway will be opening to the public.

The 15km section, which extends from Mogeely through Killeagh to Youghal will be open from midday tomorrow and links to Midleton Station which allows for a direct connection for members of the public from Cork city.

The initial 8km section from Midleton to Mogeely opened to the public in March.

Members of the public will be able to access the greenway through the trailheads at Midleton Station, Mogeely, Killeagh, and through the MacCurtainstown car park in Youghal.

The mayor of Co Cork, Joe Carroll, said the new greenway would become a “must-visit destination within Ireland’s Ancient East”.

“It complements and enhances the existing tourism offering in the county, allowing visitors to explore East Cork in a safe, off-road, and traffic free environment,” he added, expressing the hope the route would serve as a “catalyst for economic growth and tourism development”.

Cork County Council chief executive Moira Murrell said the project aims to meet the needs of communities “in terms of active travel, recreation, well-being, and connection to nature”.

Ms Murrell acknowledged the support of the Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the collaboration of Iarnród Éireann to complete the project as well as the support and engagement of farmers and property owners adjoining the greenway.

The greenway will integrate with existing and planned cycle infrastructure in the west towards Cork city and east towards Waterford.

It will also form part of the EuroVelo 1 route. The official opening of the full Midleton-Youghal greenway takes place early next year.