LIMERICK City and County Council has launched a new competition aimed at rural County Limerick communities that seeks to recognise interesting walks on their local roads.
Communities are encouraged to identify pleasant roadscapes in their locality, and to promote best practice in the recording and management of rural heritage features associated with their chosen route.
Bernadette Collins, executive planner, Limerick City and County Council said: “The competition invites existing or new community groups to select a mile of county road that is safe for users and that has a sufficient variety of interest. This could include a mix of trees, hedgerows, stone walls, bridges, gates, stiles, old and new houses, farmyards and field entrances.
“These ‘Golden miles’ can also be improved by their local communities as safety can be increased by appropriate signage and maintaining verges. Even removing rubbish will immediately enhances a road and often very little will need to be done other than to pick up the litter. More ambitious works such as the preservation of stone walls and planting of native species can also be planned over a number of seasons.”
She continued: “Many features of the built heritage remain to be rediscovered, such as gates, stiles, walls and bridges and these can encourage the retention of local craftsmanship and traditional styles. Research is encouraged into place names and local folklore, which can explain many of the quirks of our roads.”
Groups who wish to take part must submit a Limerick’s Golden Mile 2015 application form by July 13.
All county roads or local roads outside of the 60kmph speed limit are eligible to enter.
The submissions will be assessed by an independent team of judges.
The overall winner will receive the Golden Mile perpetual trophy and a cash prize of €500; walks will be promoted by the Council through its website and social media.
More information at www.limerick.ie/council/heritage-events-and-competitions
