Hopes for major upgrades at popular Tipperary walking trail as final plans submitted
Clare Glens upgrades now await approval from An Bord Pleanála
A major upgrade to the Clare Glens Woodlands and Looped Walk, located in Murroe just outside of Newport, has reached final planning stages according to an update provided at the April meeting of the Nenagh Municipal District.
Tipperary County Council informed Nenagh MD councillors at the meeting that they have submitted what they hope is the final version of the planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála, following required commentary on initial objections to their 2025 submission.
The plans state that the proposed development consists of construction of new entrance and access way for emergency staging area.
Trail upgrades are also included in the plans in the form of upgrades to an existing bridge, enhancement to footpaths and all ancillary site works as required to complete the works.
Plans for a new emergency staging plan are likely somewhat in response to a tragedy that occurred at the location in September 2024, when a woman in her mid-70s fell while walking in the area and was pronounced dead at the scene. At the time emergency responders were reportedly able to attend the incident safely however a new emergency staging area would certainly provide additional support in the event of any future emergency situations.
When plans were announced last year, Newport councillor Fiona Bonfield highlighted the importance of safety upgrades saying:
"As everybody knows this beautiful amenity borders both Tipperary and Limerick – with these works it will greatly add to the trail head at the Tipperary side of the Glen. It’s enjoyed by many over the summer and winter months and these works are badly needed to improve the safety aspect of the Glen on the Tipperary side.”
Nearly €200,000 had previously been granted to the Clare Glens Amenity Improvement project in 2021, which included trail widening, a wheelchair accessible trail, pedestrian bridge replacement, carpark refurbishment and signage provision.
Plans for the more recently proposed upgrades were made available to view in the Nenagh Municipal District offices from the May 28 – July 11 2025, in which time four submissions were made against the proposal.
Tipperary County Council have now commented on these appeals, providing further information where necessary and have now reached a point where they believe the project is now complete at the planning stage.
They are now awaiting an outcome from An Coimisiún Pleanála.
If planning is approved, funding will be sought by Tipperary County Council to complete the works involved.
The Clare Glens is an area of considerable natural beauty, located on the banks of the Clare River on the borders of counties Tipperary and Limerick.
Walkers can choose from two loops on the trail, the 2km Nature Loop and the 4km Glen Loop.
Although these works will certainly add to the standard of the amenity, the area is already a fantastic outdoor space and one that all Tipperary walking and outdoor enthusiasts should add to their to-do list.