News
Is it time to raise umbrellas over Main Street?
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THE introduction of street coverings over parts of our town centre is once again being discussed in Killarney. After raising the matter at the recent meeting of Killarney Municipal District, Councillor Michael Gleeson noted that he had in recent years also highlighted it to the now-abolished Killarney Town Council. "As a town councillor, I proposed to Killarney Town Council that serious consideration would be given to the introduction of street coverings at locations where locals and visitors gather to re-create and relax,” he told Killarney Advertiser.
“The council accepted that the proposal had merit and decided to investigate the matter. Towards that end the factory that manufactures street umbrellas was visited.
The council was giving serious consideration to the erecting some on the pedestrianised part of Main Street.” It was intended to have detailed discussions with property owners along that street and their views would be carefully considered, added Cllr Gleeson.
“Sadly, before progress could be made, Minister Phil Hogan wielded his ruthless axe and abolished the town council,” he said. “In the belief that my original proposal may have some merit and some interest for the Killarney Municipal Area council. The response from the council was that the proposal had merit but that it needs further examination in relation to location, streetscape impact, procurement, ongoing maintenance and cost. We await the result of those investigations and the views of the public."
Engineer Paudie O’Mahoney has over the years highlighted his concept for large canvas covers for the streets. “We live in one of the wettest areas of the country,” he reasoned. “If we put out a few large canvas overs on the street I guarantee you people will like them.”
Both Mr O’Mahoney and Cllr Gleeson noted that street coverings would be of immense benefit when it came to staging outdoor events in Killarney as well as attracting shoppers, offering shelter from the elements no matter what the weather.
Above, our colourful and whimsical take on the concept.
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway
Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis inside Killarney National Park.
An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed permission for the elevated platform project, which will complete the popular scenic loop while removing a dangerous 800-metre section along the busy N71 Killarney to Kenmare road.
Walkers and cyclists currently have to navigate narrow bends alongside heavy vehicular traffic and tour buses to complete the circuit between the Dinis and Torc car parks.
Mayor of Killarney John O’Donoghue welcomed the decision, calling it a transformative development for the region: “Since beginning in the Council in 2021, this has been one of my priorities as an issue I inherited from my predecessor Michael Gleeson, he being the first person to initially pursue the idea. I have repeatedly kept it on the agenda at Council meetings and now delighted to see we finally have positive news as this decision, which has been long overdue and eagerly awaited, will prove transformative for the area.”
Mayor O’Donoghue added: “The path, which will be on the lakeside, will offer views to rival those anywhere in the world and I have no doubt will prove very popular with locals and visitors alike. Huge credit is due to Kerry County Council and the NPWS for their co-operation on the issue. Once the decision has passed through its statutory waiting period, the design and tender stage can begin.”
The project, which will be built on a raised platform to protect the natural habitat beneath, will also be fully accessible for people with mobility issues. Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce also welcomed the green light, noting that the completed loop will create a major safe attraction showcasing Muckross Lake, Dinis Cottage, and the Old Weir Bridge.
LAKESIDE PATH: An Coimisiún Pleanála has approved planning permission for a new raised walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis in Killarney National Park.
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held in Dingle last week. Her hand-crafted chocolate covered strawberries secured the top spot in national competition, earning recognition for the local food producer on the national stage.
Green light for Torc to Dinis walkway
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc...
LOCAL GOLD:
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas...
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