Cork County Council said the full 23km Midleton Youghal Greenway opened at midday today.
The council said that while the Midleton Youghal Greenway will officially open in early 2025, the route is now open for use.
The use of the former railway alignment has been controversial, but councillors who supported the greenway said that while everybody wanted the railway restored, it was better for the route to be used before it was reinstated.
Much was also made by some of the removal of the old tracks, but the removal of old tracks is required to re-open the railway.
Phase one of the greenway, from Midleton to Mogeely, opened in March 2024. The final section from Mogeely through Killeagh to Youghal has just been finished with the exception of works around the old Youghal train station.
The route forms part of the EuroVelo 1 route planned from Portugal to Norway. In Ireland, EuroVelo 1 is sign-posted along a mix of different roads and it will use existing and planned greenways and other routes, such as those from Midleton to Cork City, which is still missing sections.
For now, the route can be accessed via Midleton train station and trailheads at Mogeely, Killeagh and the MacCurtainstown Car Park in Youghal.
The council said: “Trees and hedgerows have been retained along the greenway and a significant programme of native planting has enhanced biodiversity.”
The Cork County Council said that it wanted to recognise the extensive engagement by both farmers and property owners adjoining the greenway. It said that it has endeavoured to ensure concerns were “listened to and addressed where reasonably practicable”.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll, said: “This wonderful new Greenway will become a must-visit destination within Ireland’s Ancient East. It complements and enhances the existing tourism offering in the county, allowing visitors to explore East Cork in a safe, off-road and traffic free environment.”
Cllr Carroll added: “We hope the Greenway will also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and tourism development. By attracting visitors from near and far, the Greenway will stimulate local business and create opportunities in the hospitality, retail, and service sectors to boost tourism revenue and revitalise our towns and villages.”
Moira Murrell, chief executive of Cork County Council, said:: “This project aims to meet the needs of local communities in terms of active travel, recreation, well-being and connection to nature.”
Murrell added: “This project is possible thanks to the support of the Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, as well as collaboration with Iarnród Éireann. We would also like to acknowledge the support and engagement from the farmers and property owners adjoining the greenway throughout.”
Mary Flynn, senior engineering inspector with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, said: ”The Midleton Youghal Greenway represents another important milestone in TII’s commitment to providing sustainable transportation. We look forward to seeing locals and visitors alike enjoying this new section of greenway during the holiday break.”