05/12/2025
News
First South Kerry Greenway section to open this month in major milestone for troubled project
The first section of the South Kerry Greenway is set to open before Christmas in what is a landmark moment for the flagship project.
After more than 11 years since the ambitious scheme was initially unveiled, walkers will be able to traverse a 3.5km section between Kells Post Office and Kells Station.
Councillor Tommy Cahill confirmed the opening date of December 19 for the segment, dubbing it “exceptionally positive news” for the region.
“Finally, this is the first sign of real, concrete progress being made on one of several projects in the South Kerry region,” he said.
“This is a generational project and this will be the most impressive Greenway not only in Ireland but across Europe and beyond.
“The extra footfall, employment and boost to the local economy it will bring is immeasurable and we sincerely hope it will reverse the very worrying trend of rural depopulation in the region.”
Cllr Cahill also commended his father, Deputy Michael Cahill, for his “vision and foresight”.
The 32km project was announced in 2014 and has faced major challenges since, with estimated costs rising from around €5m to €20m in 2019.
The mountain terrain, objections from local landowners and even a slug, have all hampered progress, resulting in just over 8km having seen any works carried out.
Eamon Casey, who has run the Casey Cycles shop in Cahersiveen for over 40 years, welcomed the progress but acknowledged there was still a long way to go.
Mr Casey hopes the route will someday allow his shop to expand and hire more employees, whilst also providing a much-needed boost to other local businesses in the area.
This is a long time coming,” said Mr Casey.
“I know it’s only opening a stage of the greenway but it’s a start. Once people see what the project looks like, it’s only going to be received positively.
“The main thing it’s going to give to Cahersiveen and rural areas is confidence. Businesses in rural areas are struggling, and this will encourage people to start new enterprises and invest in the region.
“It’s going to be one of the best scenic greenways in the country without a shadow of a doubt. The mountain stage section into Kells Bay is going to be especially spectacular.”
Alan Landers, a B&B owner in Cahersiveen, said he was “delighted” to see the section open but warned the most challenging parts of the project still lie ahead.
He pointed to sections of the Mountain Stage, where major renovations of the 73ft high Victorian Cahersiveen Viaduct and old railway tunnel are yet to have started.
“I still have concerns that the main projects haven’t been addressed,” he said, “these are the projects that will take the longest time.”
“I understand the council was doing it with the resources they had, but they did the easy sections. The main, heavy, work still has to be done.
“If we’re to believe a completion date of 2030, they’re the projects that are going to take the most time, and I don’t understand why they weren’t addressed first.”
