Limerick City and County Council was delighted to be named winner of the “Supporting Tourism” category at the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2025 for the ‘Limerick Greenway - Embrace the Unexpected!’
The Award recognises the Greenway as a transformative tourism and community asset for West Limerick.
The win is an acknowledgement of the Council’s commitment to showcasing the Greenway as a must-visit destination, inviting locals and visitors alike to discover hidden gems, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences along the route.
The 22nd annual Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards ceremony was held in association with the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage, sponsored by Ørsted, showcasing and celebrating the best of Local Government in Ireland.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, commented:
“This is a proud award for us to win as a local authority. The Limerick Greenway has been transformative. It now connects five of our towns and villages and allows many hundreds of thousands of people - indeed some 640,000 since the 2021 opening - to experience what we all know, that West Limerick has a stunning countryside. I want to congratulate our Tourism team and all of those in Limerick City and County Council who maintain the Greenway all year round for their vision and dedication in making it a flagship project that showcases the very best of Limerick.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery added:
“Limerick Greenway is a phenomenal success story. Every detail of the project was designed with people in mind. This award is a tribute to the hard work of the staff at Limerick City and County Council and the support of local communities who have embraced the Greenway as their own.”
Director General at Limerick City and County Council, Dr. Pat Daly is delighted with the Award commenting:
“We are immensely proud of what the Limerick Greenway has already achieved since it’s official opening in 2021. It is a super tourist attraction and a catalyst for economic growth and community wellbeing. Winning this award validates our commitment to sustainable development and inclusive access for all. We will continue to invest in the Greenway and explore new ways to enhance the visitor experience, ensuring it remains a world-class amenity for generations to come.”
Limerick City and County Council is committed to investing in the Greenway’s future through the development of Greenway Hubs and enhanced visitor experiences, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of sustainable tourism for years to come.
In Rathkeale, a €2.48 million investment has delivered a modern visitor hub with bike hire, EV charging, and improved public spaces. Meanwhile, Limerick Greenway Hub @ Newcastle West Car Park project is a €2 million investment that will deliver a range of new amenities for visitors and the local community.
About Limerick Greenway
Limerick Greenway is a transformative project which has turned the disused Limerick–Tralee railway line into a 40km scenic Greenway. It offers a safe, off-road walking and cycling experience through the stunning countryside of West Limerick, connecting five rural towns and villages.
It was funded through a combination of national and local supports, including the LEADER programme, Department of Transport, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Department of Rural and Community Development, Fáilte Ireland, Limerick City and County Council and other partners.
With features including restored 29th-century relics, hand-crafted art and age-friendly amenities, Limerick Greenway integrates local culture and accessibility for all. Visitor numbers reached 640,000 since it opened in 2021, delivering a major socio-economic boost to the region.