The CEO of Kerry County Council says it’s his hope and intention to have an agreement with all landowners along the South Kerry Greenway by the end of the year.
The council CEO Fearghal Reidy was responding to a query from Independent councillor Jackie Healy-Rae at the recent monthly meeting.
Earlier this year, it emerged that the 32-kilometre South Kerry Greenway from Glenbeigh to Cahersiveen is projected to cost €72 million.
This figure was shared at Kerry County Council’s monthly meeting in March; at that meeting Cllr Jackie Healy-Rae raised concerns about the escalating cost of the project, particularly as not all landowners have been paid.
It’s understood at that point just over a quarter of landowners had been paid.
At this month’s meeting, Cllr Healy-Rae raised the issue again, asking the CEO if it was his ambition to at least have agreements finalised with every landowner by the end of this year.
Mr Reidy stated it was his hope and intention to have agreement with all landowners along the South Kerry Greenway by the end of the year, but stated it was a two-way process.
The council also confirmed that enhanced engagement is set to take place with landowners.
Cllr Healy-Rae praised the CEO for his response and stated it’s essential landowners continue to be treated fairly and respectfully.
The Independent councillor says everything possible needs to be done to ensure that goodwill remains and that people feel listened to throughout the process.
