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Following universal praise on the opening of a new boardwalk section of the Carlingford Lough Greenway between Victoria Lock and the border which now means that you can travel from Newry to Carlingford almost entirely on a vehicle free route attention had unfortunately turned to the state of the stretch from Victoria Lock to Newry with its coarse gravel surface the subject of the most complaints. Additionally the growth of weeds and vegetation, at some points almost meeting in the middle of the path had left the route looking run-down and uncared for.
Reports on the positive new development attracted many comments complaining about the state of the stretch from the locks to Newry with On Yer Bike in Carlingford, the largest bike hire company in the area saying that the stretch was "pretty much" unrideable.
Another person said "The new boardwalks are a fabulous addition. But the condition of the path from Newry to Victoria lock lets it down badly. The large stones are awful and the path is so overgrown in parts. We were having to make a decision of getting stung by nettles on one arm or get scratched by thorns on the other. I'd say any visitors from Carlingford would not make the journey the full way into Newry, theyd be inclined to turn back at Victoria Lock. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council please sort it!” while yet another added "They badly need cut back further along this path as I was along it on the bike on Saturday and it's very overgrown plus the stones need removed/smoothed out a bit better there was no need for the extra gravel added on this path."
Newry.ie sent a media query to Council yesterday and in their reply they said that they acknowledged concerns and that they remain committed to improving the section. Council said that work to remove surface stones began on Wednesday this week and should be largely completed by today.
A council spokesperson said "Newry, Mourne and Down District Council acknowledges ongoing concerns about the condition of the Greenway between Albert Basin and Victoria Lock. While initial remedial work was carried out earlier this year, the Council recognises that the surface had deteriorated further and that vegetation overgrowth continued to impact the user experience.
"Work to remove remaining surface stones began on Wednesday 16 July and is expected to be largely completed today (Friday 18 July). Vegetation management also began this week, with the most invasive growth now cleared and remaining areas due to be completed next week."
Council are looking at longer term options for better surface improvements. "The Council is actively reviewing its maintenance strategy for the greenway and is considering longer-term options for more durable surface improvements, subject to environmental and procurement requirements.
"We are grateful for the continued feedback from both Greenway users and local businesses and remain committed to improving this section of the route—particularly ahead of the official opening of the new boardwalk extension. Thank you to all users for their patience as we work to restore and enhance this popular stretch."
The new boardwalk section while now open to the public will 'officially' open in September.
