Waterways Ireland have confirmed its list of planned improvements and developments on the Laois section of the Grand Canal.
Waterways Ireland are responsible for developing and promoting inland waterways in Ireland and Northern Ireland for public enjoyment.
They say they are committed to “championing and supporting” tourism in Laois, and that the list of planned actions will “support several tourism businesses to become established on the River Barrow.”
€80,000 will be made available to repair and strengthen the quay wall in Vicarstown.
45km of integrated walking, cycling and canoe trails will be developed on the Laois section of the Barrow Blueway.
Waterways Ireland will be prioritising weed cutting and maintenance on the Barrow Line in Laois for the remainder of 2024.
Waterways Ireland will prepare a detailed, five-year planning submission for maintenance of the waterway in Laois.
A program will be developed for critical infrastructure and investment in the weirs, locks and embankments on the Barrow Line and Arrow River.
In partnership with Failte Ireland, Waterways Ireland will conduct a Formulation of the Barrow Tourism Masterplan later this year .
There are also “several projects” planned for the Laois section of the Grand Canal that flows from Monasterevin through Vicarstown and on to Athy.
Laois Sinn Féin TD and Cathaoirleach of the Public Accounts Committee, Deputy Brian Stanley welcomed the news, saying “this public amenity has potential for greater public use and tourism.
“I have been in ongoing contact with Waterways Ireland. In particular, I have been requesting that the maintenance of this important waterway be improved with enhanced facilities on it.
“I welcome the commitments from Waterways Ireland in Laois following my contacts with them. I will continue to make the case for further developments in our county, until we achieve the fulfilment of Laois’s true potential.”
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