Independent Cllr Kieran McCarthy has welcomed progress on the extension of the Mangala walk. An allocation of €800,000 from the National Transport Authority (NTA) to Cork City Council earlier this year has allowed much progress on the next phase of the Ballybrack cycle scheme (phase 4). This next phase involves the construction of circa 2.1km, 4m wide pedestrian and cycle path connecting the recently completed Ballybrack Pedestrian and Cycle Track (phases 2 & 3) with Maryborough Hill and proposed new residential developments along the route, especially in Castletreasure.

Cllr McCarthy noted: “The project is slightly behind because of Covid and stoppage works in construction. But the NTA allocation has enabled Cork City Council to progress with a design team and it is currently preparing the detailed designs for the project. Ground investigation work is also currently proceeding at present. Cork City Council is hoping to be in a position to tender for the scheme in 2022. I will keep my pressure on what is a very exciting addition”.

Cllr McCarthy concluded: “The Mangala is a very important asset from a biodiversity perspective and from a quality of life, and for many other reasons. It would be my own view that the Mangala should be part of a much larger wider circular walking route even again, in and out of the Maryborough and Donnybrook ridges, where development is targeted. It is a concept that I have put forward in discussions for the draft Development Plan, and something I continue to lobby for”.