14 May 2015
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Michael Ring TD, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport today
‘officially re-launched’ the Youghal Eco-Boardwalk, having performed
the original opening back in July 2012.
With funding of €200,000 from the Department of the Environment and
project managed by the Coastal Management Section of Cork County
Council, the boardwalk was recently re-instated having fallen victim
to the aggressive storms that struck many coastal areas in January
2014. The boardwalk consists of 400 metres of hardwood panels sourced
in Cameroon, fixed to the original steel pylons, sunk deep into the
sand. It is completely disability access friendly. The original
facility proved to be immensely popular, becoming a daily destination
for many walkers of all ages. As well as being a healthy and pleasant
amenity it has also proven to be a venue of great social interaction
and a key driver of tourism in the area.
The Minister also performed another official duty by opening ‘The
Raleigh Quarter’ in the historic area of the town of Youghal. The
area is seen as key to Failte Ireland’s recent ‘Ireland’s Ancient
East’ initiative and incorporates the medieval town walls and gardens
and St. Mary’s Collegiate Church. The Raleigh Quarter will be the
‘visual identity’ for the area, using the world famous ‘Renaissance
Man’ and one time Mayor of Youghal as the “hook” to entice
international visitors to the historic area. Visitors will be guided
through the area by following a series of branded ‘Raleigh Quarter’
interpretive panels.
As part of his visit the Minister reviewed the progress of the Youghal
Clockgate Tower Building which is set to open to the public in 2016 as
a visitor attraction, bringing an additional €1.2M to the local
economy per annum once opened.