Offaly Way fully reopened following upgrade works
A popular walking route in Offaly has been fully reopened following a programme of bridge, fencing and trail improvements aimed at making the route safer and more accessible for walkers.
The 38km Offaly Way links the Slieve Bloom Way at Cadamstown with the Sli Mór at Lemanaghan, crossing the Grand Canal Way along its route.
Sections of the trail near Cadamstown have had faced restrictions and partial closures due to deteriorating infrastructure.
Funding secured through the Walks Scheme Development Fund, administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, has now allowed the necessary works to be completed.
A key element of the project was the replacement of a pedestrian bridge on the Offaly Way which had deteriorated to the point where it presented a significant safety risk.
The old bridge was removed and replaced with a new galvanised pedestrian bridge designed to provide a durable, low-maintenance structure for walkers.
The new bridge features gridded flooring, allowing water and debris to pass through and helping to reduce the risk of slipping in wet conditions.
Gates have also been installed at either end of the bridge to prevent animals accessing the trail and to provide an additional safety warning for walkers approaching a nearby public road.
Further improvements were delivered under the Offaly Way Walks Scheme Development Fund 2025 project.
Eight end-of-life wooden stiles were replaced with galvanised step-up stiles, while new timber fencing was installed alongside each structure. A new kissing gate was also installed at the start of the Offaly Way at the Cadamstown Trailhead.
The works were overseen by the Connect Laois Rural Recreation Officer, with the initial phase beginning under the 2024 Walks Scheme Development Fund.
The upgrades have been designed to meet relevant Sport Ireland trail standards and insurance requirements, while also reducing ongoing maintenance needs and improving the appearance of the route.