A PROJECT that has been labelled as “a golden opportunity” for tourism has moved another step towards realisation.

The Enniskillen to Sligo Greenway comprises a 72km route heading west from Enniskillen, under the shadow of Belmore Mountain, turning through Belcoo and Blacklion and then on towards Sligo.

Leitrim County Council has opened up an e-tender process to secure the services of a design team to undertake a preliminary design, route selection, environmental reports and documents supporting a statutory development consent/planning process for the project.

Fine Gael Councillor on Leitrim County Council, Sean McDermott, welcomed the latest progress in this project.

Speaking to The Impartial Reporter previously about the greenway, the Glenfarne Councillor said the cross-Border potential was enormous.

He said: “I welcome the good news that tenders are being sought to appoint a design consultant for the Sligo to Enniskillen Greenway.

“Tenders are due back by the end of this month; the tender will bring the project through the planning process on both sides of the Border – it will also produce a Construction Tender Document after planning and so will leave the project ready for construction,” said Councillor McDermott.

‘Opportunities’

“When this project is completed, it will bring opportunities for tourism and business in the region.

“Enniskillen could become a hub for blueways and greenways, as it was before the cessation of rail travel.”

Sinn Féin MLA for Fermanagh South Tyrone, Jemma Dolan, also welcomed the news that Leitrim County Council has submitted an e-tender for the greenway proposal.

She said: “As we know, this greenway will follow the old Sligo to Enniskillen railway route as much as possible.

“Leitrim [County] Council have received funding from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in Dublin to bring the project through the planning stage and make it ready for construction.

“I am pleased that Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has joined with Leitrim in the planned appointment of the design team.

“It is vitally important to progress these projects when monies become available, and it is heartening to see movement with the Enniskillen to Sligo greenway.”

She called on Stormont’s Minister for Infrastructure to start supporting the project.

“In September, the Minister invested £2.69m pounds in four greenways – two in Belfast and two in Derry and Strabane Council area.

“At the time, I pointed out to the Minister that rural councils like Fermanagh and Omagh District Council must be supported, and I highlighted the need for funding in Fermanagh.

“I will continue to fight for the Enniskillen to Sligo greenway to ensure equal funding for rural councils.”