Popular Tipperary walking route to get new pathway after planning gets green light
Tipperary County Council have granted permission for the extension of the Loch Dhoire Bhile Loop
A popular walking route in Tipperary is set to be extended after planning permission was approved for a new section of pathway on lands owned by Bord na Móna.
Bord na Móna Energy Ltd received approval from Tipperary County Council to construct a shared recreational walkway and cycle path that will link into the existing Loch Dhoire Bhile Loop near Glengoole.
The current 2.4km loop follows bog roadways and green tracks along streams and a lakeshore on former Bord na Móna lands.
The new development will include 602 metres of former rail bed, 2,859 metres along bog headlands, and 721 metres of machine access routes converted into a walkway.
Additional facilities will include car and bicycle parking, EV charging points, upgraded access roads, interpretative and wayfinding signage, and fencing where necessary.
This project is part of the Midlands Trails Network, which seeks to enhance walking and cycling infrastructure across the midland counties of Tipperary, Offaly, Roscommon, Longford, and Westmeath.
Several objections were lodged during the planning process, with concerns about potential harm to natural habitats, congestion during peak times, and road safety issues.