Launch of the Newly Refurbished Blue Pool Trails Glengarriff and Opening of Bantry Peace Park

Cllr. Danny Collins accompanied by approximately 25 people as he cuts the ribbon at Blue Pool Trails, Glengarriff.

Cork County Council has officially opened two new exciting recreational developments in West Cork. Bantry Peace Park is now home to a new inclusive playground suitable for all ages. The Blue Pool Trails Glengarriff underwent extensive improvement works including accessible paths and new seating and viewing areas.

The Peace Park creates a positive environment for all to exercise, relax, and have fun. With accessible playground equipment, public gym equipment, and a special sensory garden, all needs are catered for. 
The Blue Pool Trails Glengarriff transforms the area surrounding the Glengarriff Nature Reserve. Residents and visitors alike will benefit from the enhanced nature experience located along the Wild Atlantic Way and the Beara Way.

Speaking about the projects, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn said 

The launch of both projects marks significant advancement in Cork County Council’s Development Plan objectives to protect the beautiful settings of local landscapes and to expand the sporting, leisure, and community facilities that make our villages and towns attractive. The improvement works at the Blue Pool Glengarriff ensure access to the popular trails and water activities for all, and Bantry’s Peace Park provides a recreational and fitness outlet for all ages and abilities. The impact of these amenities on both areas will be hugely felt, as now there are accessible facilities to host community events, to promote the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors, and to attract new tourists to the area which will boost local economies and to host community events.

In total, €595,940 was invested in newly refurbished Blue Pool Trails, with funding coming from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, €366,000 was invested in the Peace Park which received funding through both the Town and Village Renewal Scheme for the installation of a new playground, and the Community Recognition Fund Scheme for the provision of wheelchair accessible equipment and carpark works. The Department of Rural and Community Development funded all three schemes.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Valerie O’Sullivan added,

I would like to extend our gratification to the Department of Rural and Community Development for supporting the improvements in Glengarriff and Bantry. I also want to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of our team and project partners for both projects. These initiatives align with Cork County Council’s commitment to developing vibrant communities throughout the County, and we are proud to be able to contribute both financially through funding and physically through the refurbishment works.