Trio of Cork communities urged to share ideas to stay connected

A new community group, entitled Friends of the Trail, is seeking to improve connectivity between the three residential areas of Kinsale, Belgooly, and Riverstick.

A spokesperson for Friends of the Trail said the group wants to demonstrate to Cork County Council the level of local support across these areas for a "safe, accessible connection trail that benefits all three communities".

Friends of the Trail member, JJ Hurley said this is not about "cheerleading any project to link the town and villages", such as the Cork to Kinsale Greenway.

“All we are trying to do is see what people want and take those findings to Cork County Council,” said Mr Hurley.

“With 160,000 electric bikes set to be sold in Ireland by 2029, we need to ensure that our roads are safe for all road users.

“Longer-lasting batteries will improve the range of bikes, and we need to be ready for it," he added.

Reflecting on how connectivity has improved within these communities in recent years, Mr Hurley said while there has been significant improvements in local bus services, more can be done to link public amenities.

"We have buses every half an hour, with well-maintained bus shelters, which have made it safer for residents and increased footfall - but we can still improve," he said.

“Residents in Riverstick can avail of Ballymartle Woods, and people in Belgooly can access their walkway, but neither can avail of the other’s outdoor amenity [without driving to and from]."

Mr Hurley is urging members of these communities to get in touch with ideas to increase connectivity.

“Friends of the Trail are here to engage with all stakeholders and examine ways in which we can get to know our neighbours better," said Mr Hurley.

"We want to take those learnings to the appropriate authorities so they can explore how best to turn those wishes into actions that benefit the entire community.” To get in touch with Friends of the Trail, contact: kbrtrail@gmail.com.