LUC is delivering an exciting access and recreation project in Ireland – the Cappoquin Amenity Hub. The work champions the importance of free access to nature in the journey towards a more sustainable, healthy and inclusive landscape.

Working with Waterford City & County Council, the Cappoquin Amenity Hub project addresses people’s interaction between Cappoquin town and the River Blackwater Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

The project will deliver a new 1km walking trail incorporating heritage, landscape and ecological features. The trail will improve access for locals and visitors to create safe year-round access to this key landscape asset, which respects and celebrates resident ecology. It includes repurposing the derelict railway viaduct to form an accessible new link across the river.

LUC’s Ecology and Landscape Design teams are currently working to progress the Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF) Stage 2 Design of the scheme, and supporting Appropriate Assessment. This stretch of the river and the flanking woodlands is a designated SAC, part of the pan-European Natura 2000 network.

The trail at Cappoquin will conform to National Trails Office Class 1 or Class 2 specification. This ensures it meets the needs of all users within the community at an accessible rural-fringe location. Ultimately, the trail will link into a regional network of Greenways and Blueways to offer long-distance active-travel connectivity across County Waterford as part of Ireland 2040 aspirations.

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) is funding the project.

Learn more about Ecology and Landscape Design at LUC.