Trá na Rossan beach access reopens - Donegal Daily

Update: This article was updated on Tuesday, 25th August after it was confirmed that the traditional access route to Trá na Rossan beach had reopened.Access to...

Update: This article was updated on Tuesday, 25th August after it was confirmed that the traditional access route to Trá na Rossan beach had reopened.

Access to Trá na Rossan beach outside Downings has reopened "on a goodwill basis" following a months-long closure of the traditional route through privately owned farmland.

The pathway had been closed since April when signs stating “private property” and “keep out” were placed at the entrance.

Donegal County Council is continuing to engage with the landowner over a lease arrangement aimed at securing a permanent public access route, including a proposed new boardwalk entrance and fencing.

The reopening will be welcomed by local users, while hopes remain that the route can ultimately be made more accessible for older people, families and those with limited mobility.

The access route to Tra na Rossan Beach Downings from the car park. Photo: Donegal Daily

Six months ago, the council confirmed that funding was in place and a contractor had already been procured for a new boardwalk.

In response to queries from Donegal Daily , the council confirmed that the proposed lease agreement has not yet been legally executed.

"Discussions between the council and the landowner are continuing, and a number of matters remain subject to agreement between the parties,” the spokesperson said.

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“Once all terms have been agreed and the necessary legal formalities have been completed by both parties, the lease can be executed and the proposed access works can proceed."

The council has confirmed that funding identified for the project remains available and that the contractor previously procured for the works remains in place.

“Subject to the completion of the necessary lease arrangements and the securing of access to the site, the contractor will be in a position to commence the works,” the spokesperson said.

The anticipated construction period remains approximately one to two weeks, subject to weather conditions and any unforeseen site issues.