donegal minister unveils new coastal walking route
A new shared pedestrian and cycle path linking Carrigart and Downings has been officially opened in North Donegal. The €500,000 project enhances safety and encourages active travel for local residents and holidaymakers alike.
Source:
Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 2 min read
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, officially opened a 1.5km shared pedestrian and cycle path connecting Carrigart to Downings in County Donegal on Thursday, 24 September 2026. The new walkway, which received €500,000 in Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) funding, provides a safe, dedicated off-road link for locals and visitors commuting or recreating between the two North Donegal villages.
Located in the townland of Ballyohagan, the walkway runs along the R248 regional road between Carrigart and Downings. The completed works include integrated drainage improvements and safety fencing along the busy stretch of the R248. Speaking at the opening in Carrigart, Minister Calleary described the project as transformative, noting that it creates safe, accessible, and sustainable opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors while strengthening rural communities.
The minister acknowledged the dedication of Donegal County Council, the project team, local elected representatives, and community groups including Moving Mevagh Forward and Carrigart and Downings Tidy Towns. He emphasised that such projects improve road safety and encourage active travel, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to engage with their environment. Since 2020, funding in excess of €5.6 million has been awarded to County Donegal for 74 projects under the ORIS scheme.
Located in the townland of Ballyohagan, the walkway runs along the R248 regional road between Carrigart and Downings. The completed works include integrated drainage improvements and safety fencing along the busy stretch of the R248. Speaking at the opening in Carrigart, Minister Calleary described the project as transformative, noting that it creates safe, accessible, and sustainable opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors while strengthening rural communities.
The minister acknowledged the dedication of Donegal County Council, the project team, local elected representatives, and community groups including Moving Mevagh Forward and Carrigart and Downings Tidy Towns. He emphasised that such projects improve road safety and encourage active travel, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to engage with their environment. Since 2020, funding in excess of €5.6 million has been awarded to County Donegal for 74 projects under the ORIS scheme.
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