New route for greenway

We are writing to you to explain why there is considerable unrest regarding the development of the Glenbeigh to Reenard Greenway in County Kerry along the old railway line.

Although some of the landowners and private property holders were approached about the re-classification of the 50-year defunct railway line; their alternative suggestions were unpopular and as a consequence Kerry County Council decided to impose a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to enable them to create a cycleway along that route.

In many places the route is unacceptable — dividing farmers’ land and creating security issues for new properties which were developed bordering the old line.

The alternative suggestions put to the council would work out far cheaper than the old rail route and the security issues of farmers and householders decreased.

There is no objection to the creation of cycleway. The benefits it will bring to south Kerry are endless — an important boost for the area, but not at the expense of the residents — the majority being farmers who after 50 years have become dependent upon this old line; and the new home owners who have built their properties near it.

Ivor & Kate Watkins

Caherciveen

Co Kerry