Planning will be sought before the end of the year for a 50 mile off road cycle path in West Galway – similar to that in Mayo – which has the potential to generate millions of euro in tourism revenue.

The project on the old Galway to Clifden railway line, with an estimated cost of €6 million, has received the full backing of Failte Ireland and construction of the greenway could begin as early as next year.

Last weekend the extension of the Great Western Greenway between Westport and Achill was opened and this is expected to result in a huge increase in tourist numbers for the region.

The provision of a greenway between Galway and Clifden co
uld bring thousands of additional visitors to the Connemara area as well as injecting millions into the local economy.

The Midland Great Western Railway from Galway to Clifden was opened on July 1, 1895. Originally a route along the coastline was designed to boost the fishing industry and serve a population of around 60,000.

But the Royal Commission on Public works directed otherwise and chose that an inland route be constructed via Oughterard.

See full story in this week's Connacht Tribune.