BMW Study rejects Greenway idea on Western Rail Corridor A major study of future recreational developments in the area of outdoor pursuits in Counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon has rejected the idea that the Western Rail Corridor (WRC) be turned into a walking or cycling route. The “Study of Outdoor Recreation in the West” (i.e. the Counties of Galway, Mayo and Roscommon) was developed to consider how outdoor recreation can be improved to benefit local communities and the economy and ensure the natural environment is protected. The study considered a broad spectrum of ideas and suggestions on a range of existing and potential options. It is now available from the Border, Midland & Western (BMW) Regional Assembly website: bmwassembly.ie under the ‘Publications’ section (see ‘Regional Planning’). It will shortly be accessible from the Council websites. The study was influenced by the outcomes of consultation with a wide variety of clubs, groups, organisations and individuals in the region, who provided an array of ideas, suggestions and recommendations. Having examined the submissions received the authors conclude that: “The current policy position is that the Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) for the West Region 2010-2022 seek the full reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor as a long-term strategic sustainable transport route. Greenways are not mentioned in the RPGs, though the development of suitable long-distance walking and cycling routes (subject to environmental assessment) are supported. It is not the purpose of the Regional Planning Guidelines to see such routes provided at the expense of long-term strategic infrastructure so it is critical that the goals are not hampered even in the short term particularly when other more suitable greenway options could be explored taking account of environmental, social and economic considerations.”
Posted on: Fri, 24 Oct 2014 16:44:45 +0000
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