Almost €200,000 set to enhanceClare Glens
Upgrade for popular beauty spot
A popular local beauty spot, which has become one of the amenity facilities in the region frequented by thousands each year, is to benefit from a substantial injection of State funding for an upgrade.
The Clare Glens, which straddles the Tipperary-Limerick county boundary about a mile from Newport, has been allocated almost €200,000 by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys.
The centre is widely used as a recreational amenity with facilities for enjoying the nature trails, dapping in the Clare river and enjoyment as a picnic location.
The crystal clear waters of the Clare river flow through dense forest in a red sandstone gorge to create a truly beautiful setting while the numerous waterfalls which flow through the sandstone also help to make for a picture perfect setting.
In recent years it has become noted as a tranquil setting for a walking trail which surrounds the river, marking the border between Tipperary and Limerick as the bridge marks the county boundaries.
There is a choice between two route options on a loop trail offering a preference between 2km and 4km. En route a wooden footbridge marks a point where the 2km Nature Loop turns rights and returns back to the trailhead.
The 4km Glen Loop proceeds straight ahead and on either choice there is a treat in store on this family-friendly mini-adventure on a pleasant evening.
The Clare Glens is one of 38 projects throughout the country which has been allocated funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.
A sum of €198,000 has been allocated for improvements at the beauty spot on the Tipperary-Limerick border.
The monies will go towards the upgrade of the existing amenity including trail widening, the installation of a wheelchair accessible trail, pedestrian bridge replacement, carpark refurbishment and signage provision.
The allocation has been welcomed by Deputy Kieran O’Donnell who said it is brilliant to see such a wonderful public amenity, which is used extensively by all, being supported.
“With the pandemic, it is even more important that we have outdoor facilities to afford people an opportunity to get outdoors, exercise and spend time taking in their amenities,” he added.
Announcing the funding, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys commented: “The value we place on our outdoor amenities, and the contribution which they make to our physical and mental wellbeing, has never been more appreciated than during the current Covid-19 pandemic. We can also expect our outdoor recreation facilities to play an important part in supporting Ireland’s social and economic recovery as restrictions on movements are relaxed and the tourism sector re-opens.”
Local Labour councillor Fiona Bonfield has also welcomed the news. She said: “This is a fabulous amenity on our doorsteps in Newport and is widely used. Both myself and Deputy Alan Kelly have been working with Tipperary County Council and Limerick County Council on this for some time now.”