Contractor appointed for Devenish Paths project
17th June 2021
McCusker Contracts Ltd has commenced work after securing a £289,500 contract for the development of a 5km (approx.) looped route path in the Devenish area of Enniskillen to facilitate shared use for walking, running and cycling.
The project, known as ‘The Wide Awake Way’, is being delivered by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in partnership with Lough Erne Landscape Partnership (LELP) and Devenish Partnership Forum with funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, Ulster Wildlife and Sport NI.
Works will include widening and regrading of the current path, construction of new sections of path linking to the existing path network between Erne Health Centre, Erne Campus, Donnelly’s Field and the Cornagrade Road, before joining in with an existing path along Irvinestown Road and Racecourse Lough.
In addition to the path works, the project will include the installation of trail heads and interpretive signage highlighting historical points of interest along the route.
Councillor Errol Thompson, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, welcomed the appointment of McCusker Contracts saying:
“I am delighted that the contractor has now been appointed and work on the project is underway. Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to working in partnership with other key stakeholders to improve the quality of life of the people of the district and to make the district a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
In these times, where exercise can be such a positive step for both mind and body, The Wide Awake Way is an example of the benefits such an approach can deliver for the people of the Devenish area and I very much look forward to the completion of what is a very significant project.”
A spokesperson from Devenish Partnership Forum said:
“We are very happy that this partnership project is progressing. These paths connect our community to nature and the new signage will also connect us to our rich history and heritage. The paths will enhance the existing paths in the area which are so beneficial to health and wellbeing. We look forward to building upon this positive work in the further development of our local nature reserve which adjoins the route.”
George Lucas, Chair of Sport NI said:
“We are delighted to support ‘The Wide Awake Way’ project, with National Lottery Funding. Thanks to National Lottery players, the National Lottery is playing a critical role in supporting people, projects and communities during these challenging times. The development of this project will enable sports participation in the beautiful Lough Erne landscape, particularly increasing those running and cycling which will have a positive impact on participants’ mental and physical health. This project will provide a unique opportunity to engage in sport whilst being amongst nature and wildlife. It is important that the development of this area of Enniskillen for sport will minimise the impact on biodiversity and contribute to conservation and healthy outdoor areas for future generations.”
Elmarie Swanepoel, Programme Manager of Lough Erne Landscape Partnership said:
“We are pleased to support this fantastic partnership project. The Wide Awake Way will provide an opportunity for the local community and visitors alike to enjoy the magnificent natural beauty of the waterways around Enniskillen, whilst exploring the history of the development of the town including important features like the Enniskillen workhouse, Tori gate and the Wide Awake Cargo boat.”
Dawn Miskelly, Director of Development and Engagement of Ulster Wildlife said:
“Ulster Wildlife, through the Landfill Communities Fund is delighted to support this worthwhile project. The development of a high-quality looped route will allow residents of the area direct, doorstep access to a quality and accessible route. It will facilitate shared use for a variety of ventures including recreation, heritage and biodiversity.”
In order to accommodate construction works, stretches of path will be temporarily closed on dates between Monday 31 May 2021 and Friday 1 October 2021.