Opening of the upgraded trail at Russborough House and Park
CATHAOIRLEACH OF WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL, CLLR. PAUL O’BRIEN,
OFFICIALLY OPENS LINK TRAIL TO RUSSBOROUGH HOUSE & PARK
On Tuesday 17th December, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Paul O’Brien, officially opened the Russborough House & Park Link Trail. He was joined by the Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass MD, Cllr. Patsy Glennon and Wicklow County Council’s Chief Executive, Emer O’Gorman.
The works carried out in 2024 included site groundworks, path upgrades, the installation of a gravel surface, grassing, and planting. The existing railings were upgraded and painted, and new fencing was installed in necessary sections of the path. Additionally, a cycle hub area was created, complete with bike racks and signage for bike parking.
Funding for this project was provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), with matched funding from Wicklow County Council.
The upgraded trail now features a wide and level surface, which is enjoyed by the local Parkrun community every Saturday morning. It is hoped that this facility, with ongoing support from Russborough House, will serve as a source of recreation for all visitors.
In his opening remarks, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Paul O’Brien noted, “This sustainability project will enhance the walking trails within these historic parklands which now include a bicycle hub to the side of the main house for visitors travelling on bikes from nearby Blessington.”.
Speaking at the opening, Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass MD, Cllr. Patsy Glennon said, “I welcome the upgrading of this park trail within the beautiful setting of Russborough House, with such a rich history. I hope that this and other future recreation projects around West Wicklow, will bring much enjoyment not just for the local community but also for new visitors”.
Emer O’Gorman, Wicklow County Council’s Chief Executive, added “Outdoor recreation projects like this enhance Wicklow’s natural sites and beautiful scenery for the benefit of the community and the many visitors to our County. We are grateful to the Department for their funding and support to allow us to complete this and many other outdoor recreation projects. I would also like to thank Russborough’s Board of Trustees for their support and vision on this project”.
Joe Carthy, Chairperson of the Russborough House & Park Board of Trustees, remarked, “We thank everyone involved in getting the trail upgraded, the Department, Wicklow County Council, our Architects and the contractors. The new trail has enhanced the walking and running experience of our visitors and local weekly Park Run participants, making it more accessible to families of young children and people with restricted mobility”.
Theresa O’Brien, Director of Services and Baltinglass MD District Manager, concluded, “This and all our other ORIS projects can be completed successfully with thanks to our outdoor recreation staff, who work with landowners and contractors to ensure these amenities are built to the highest standards for the enjoyment of us all”.