The sustainable mobility and tourism strategy officially opened this week.
The new Ballycommon Trailhead, which is a key component of Offaly’s Greenway Strategy and Rural Regeneration Programme, officially opened this week.
Located at the junction of the Grand Canal Greenway and the Ballycommon–Kilbeggan Link, this facility provides modern, safe and accessible infrastructure for cyclists, walkers, families and visitors of all ages and abilities.
The newly completed car park has 52 spaces, including electric vehicle charging points, pedestrian infrastructure, public lighting and safe linkages to surrounding amenities.
Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, Cllr. John Leahy says "It’s a space for everyone, from young cyclists to older walkers, families with buggies to visitors stopping for a coffee. This trailhead belongs to the people of Offaly and to all who come to enjoy this special place.”
Chief Executive of Offaly County Council, Anna Marie Delaney, praised the collaborative effort behind the project stating “this development represents far more than a new car park – it is a strategic economic asset and road safety improvement scheme.
It enhances visitor experience, supports local businesses, and reflects Offaly’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive infrastructure that brings real value to our rural communities.”
As Minister of State with Responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer commended the project as a national example of best practice in rural infrastructure delivery stating “Ballycommon Trailhead is a showcase of how to do it right – a people-first, accessible facility that sits proudly within the wider greenway network. It’s about revolution, not just investment. My Department are proud to support walking and cycling projects like this. Offaly County Council has shown leadership and vision, and I look forward to working with them on future developments.”
The trailhead was delivered in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and Waterways Ireland.
It features traffic-calming measures at Ballycommon Bridge, improved pedestrian crossings and landscaped walkways, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all users.
The project was fully funded by TII and constructed by Lakeland Civils, with Offaly County Council’s in-house Road Design Team leading delivery.
Offaly County Council extended its thanks to all stakeholders, especially the Ballycommon community, Ballycommon GAA and local businesses, including Ballycommon Bakehouse for their continued support.
This new amenity is already being hailed as a transformational asset for the area – connecting people, promoting wellbeing, and enriching Offaly’s growing network of greenways.
Offaly Heritage Site Opening Temporary Cafe
IFI Allocate €40k Funding To Laois And Offaly River
Gen Z Drink Less Alcohol
Over 32,000 Outpatients Waiting In Midlands Hospitals
Laois Motorist Parks In Disabled Bay Without Permit To get Ice Cream
Scripts Festival Returns To Midlands For 2025
Concerns Raised By Residents On Laois Solar Farm
'Drug Users More Often Victims Than Criminals'
Michael O'Leary Criticizes Environmental Taxes On Airlines
Westmeath Garda Station To Host Open Day
Midlands To Hit Highs Of 29 Degrees
Westmeath Bridge Could Be Named To Honour Former Minister
Offaly Man Who Died in Workplace Accident To Be Laid To Rest On Saturday
Financial Pressure For Families Waiting To Move Into Laois Estate
Former Midlands MEP Emerging As Favourite To Be Fine Gael's Presidential Candidate
Missing Woman Believed To Have Traveled To Dublin On Day Of Disappearance
Reduction In Hiring New Graduates Due To AI
Plans For €1bn Westmeath Data Centre Campus And Solar Farm
Status Yellow High Temperature Warnings For Midlands
Westmeath Man Who Died In Motorcycle Crash To Be Laid To Rest Saturday