Leitrim County Council, in collaboration with Sligo County Council, Cavan County Council, and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, with the support of Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department for Infrastructure, is actively working on the development of the Sligo Leitrim Northern Counties Railway Greenway.
This visionary project aims to create a picturesque greenway route stretching from Sligo town to Enniskillen, traversing through the charming towns of Collooney, Ballintogher, Domahair, Manorhamilton, Glenfarne, Blacklion, Belcoo, and Letterbreen. The Greenway is aptly named after the historic Sligo Leitrim and Northern Counties Railway (SLNCR), which once operated as a 75-kilometer railway line, connecting Enniskillen to Collooney, where it seamlessly linked with the Sligo-Dublin railway line.
Local communities have played a pivotal role in nurturing the concept of this greenway within the region, recognizing the unique opportunity presented by the SLNCR’s heritage, which historically united Enniskillen and Collooney. Today, tangible remnants of the railway line still exist, including preserved stations, road crossings, quaint cottages, earthworks, and charming bridges, all serving as poignant reminders of the area’s rich railway history.
In a bid to engage with and seek valuable input from the communities and businesses along the greenway’s planned route, Urban Foresight, representing the SLNCR Partners, is organizing an in-person workshop. Scheduled to be held at Belcoo Community Centre on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., this workshop aims to serve as a platform for gathering insights and feedback from the local stakeholders. Its primary objectives include the development of a clear vision for the greenway and an improved understanding of its potential impact on the local economy. Furthermore, the workshop will delve into the experiences of European greenway routes and will closely examine the specific needs and aspirations of the communities and businesses within the immediate vicinity.
The Sligo Leitrim Northern Counties Railway Greenway represents not only a promising recreational and transportation initiative but also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the region’s history and engage its vibrant communities. With enthusiastic collaboration and support, this project is poised to breathe new life into this historic corridor, transforming it into a thriving greenway for generations to come.
