Plans are afoot for a new 3.1km looped cycleway at Derryfafa Bog in Ballyforan.

A planning application was submitted to Galway County Council just before Christmas – and local Senator Aisling Dolan was full of praise for the Ballyforan Area Transition Team which is set to make its vision a reality.

The plans for the recreational development and construction of 3.1km, off-road shared walkway and cycleway to the North of Derryfadda Bog will also include a small carpark, bicycle parking and pedestrian access.

“It is a fantastic achievement by them to bring this project for a cycleway in Ballyforan right through to planning stage,” she said.

“It shows remarkable foresight and vision on the part of the local community and voluntary group to develop their local area and promote tourism and jobs for Ballyforan.

“This looped cycleway is planned for Derryfadda Bog close to the River Suck with a small carpark and pedestrian access – it will be a wonderful scenic place for locals and tourists alike,” she added.

The Ballyforan Area Transition Group was awarded over €1 million  in competitive funding from the Just Transition fund in 2020 for two  projects – a feasibility study of Ballyforan and surrounding areas as well as the major project of developing a cycleway.

“This will be a real boost to families and people of all abilities as a safe smooth off-road place to bring children and people with a disability or difficulty walking,” said Senator Dolan.

“Prams and wheelchairs will be able to navigate through beautiful bog landscape close to the River Suck. We have such rich biodiversity and natural heritage in the West of Ireland that is unique in Europe.

“I’d like to acknowledge the work of Bord na Móna working with local groups and farming community as well as Galway County Council.

“It is great to see local authorities working together to promote the importance of Just Transition and bringing jobs to the Ballyforan area,” she added.

Pictured: Welcome…Cllr Aisling Dolan.