€100k repair fund for national park roads
Following a host of complaints about the state of roads in Killarney National Park, €100,000 is being spent on repairs.
The park is visited by more than a million people annually, but many have to make their way around large potholes and water-logged stretches of roads in the park, which are used extensively by walkers and cyclists, as well as traditional jaunting cars.
Last year, €50,000 was spent on improvement works and Arts and Heritage Minister Jimmy Deenihan has confirmed an additional €50,000 will be spent this year.
It is understood it could be up to six weeks before work begins, but the National Parks and Wildlife Service said temporary repairs would be carried out in the meantime.
The most damaged roads will be prioritised and the plan is to get phased funding over a number of years for an ongoing programme of repairs.
Local man Nicky Barry, who has been campaigning for repairs, said the news was welcomed by all who walk, cycle or jog along an “obstacle course” between the main entrance to the national park and Muckross Abbey.
“We’re looking forward to the complete annihilation of potholes,” he said.
Meanwhile, people walking the Kerry Way will soon be able to access data on folklore and local history through their digital devices.
A new app containing audio clips has been developed at the Institute of Technology Tralee giving visitors valuable insights. There are also photographs illustrating seasonal changes in the area and information about the route. Specific points of interest along the route will also be activated through GPS tracking, starting with the stretch from the Black Valley to Glencar.
