A grant of 247,500 Euro has been made available to carry out works on the King’s River in Callan. It is hoped this money will be used to bring the river back into use and enjoyment not only for the people of Callan but also for the people of Kilkenny and Tourists.
The funding is a long time coming according to Councillor and local business owner Joe Lyons, who has been seeking funding since back in the 1980’s. Although some funding was made available at different times the main problems were never resolved and silting has become a major problem, creating three islands which restrict the flow of the river and makes the area very unsightly.
Speaking to the Kilkenny Observer, Councillor Lyons said it is hoped the river can be opened up again for use for swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. At the moment the local Callan Kayaking Club are going to Thomastown to participate in their sport.
Two new walkways would be hugely enhanced once the work on the river is complete according to Councillor Lyons. He also expressed his concern for local wild life, and the biodiversity of the area.
Once this work is complete it is hoped it will be the start of the development of a green way between Callan and Kells which would enhance both areas for tourism growth.
Councillor Lyons thanked Minister Humphreys and John Paul Phelan TD for the funding and The Callan Town Team who made the application.
