New footpath in County Waterford town improves safety and connectivity for residents

A new footpath has significantly improved accessibility and safety for residents in one particular area of Tramore in County Waterford.

The footpath was completed by Waterford City & County Council under its Active Travel Programme and while it was welcomed by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Seams Ryan, one local resident highlighted just how significant the works are.

For many years, wheelchair user Helen Cullinane found it difficult to exit the front of her home on the Waterford Road in Tramore. 

“I didn’t feel safe coming onto a main road and having to look through the windows of parked cars just to see if I could access the route to the beach or town,” she said.

However, following the completion of a new footpath safety and connectivity have significantly improved for Helen and other residents in the area.

“Before the works, I had to use my back entrance, but now I can safely use a new ramp and wheel straight onto a lovely new footpath and go about my day,” said Helen.

Commenting that the new footpath has made the area much safer, she said: "The place looks fresher and better. It’s great.” 

The new footpath connects to existing pedestrian infrastructure and serves as an important link for people walking to local destinations such as Tramore AFC and Tramore GAA Club. A spokesperson for the local authority said it will also improve access for those who use the route to walk to the Ring Road and the town centre.

The Waterford Road, Tramore Active Travel scheme is part of Waterford City and County Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting sustainable, active travel options for residents and visitors.

Meanwhile, Cllr Ryan said: “We all know how important it is to feel safe walking in our own communities."

“Whether it’s a child walking to football training, someone from the area heading into town, or a wheelchair user like Helen coming out her front door, this new footpath is already making a real difference," he said.

"It’s part of our ongoing work to make Tramore and Waterford safer, more connected, and easier to get around on foot or by bike.” 

Tramore AFC also welcomed the new footpath, with Club Treasurer Stuart Kennedy commenting: “Our members, especially the younger ones, now have a safe route to walk to training and matches. Parents can feel confident knowing their children are walking safely on the new path, without having to navigate a busy road.” 

Construction also recently started on a dedicated two-way cycle track on the Tramore Ring Road.