PLANS are in train to provide more water-based activities including kayaking, orienteering and fishing along the River Bandon, writes Kieran O’Mahony.

The Urban Outdoors Adventure Initiative is a project funded by the Dormant Accounts and supported by Sport Ireland across the county.

A spokesperson for Cork Local Sports Partnership said recent flood relief work in the area means the River Bandon could now be safely used and accessed as a community amenity.

‘Cork Local Sports Partnership will work with strong partners including the Kinsale Outdoor Education Centre and Cork County Council to activate the river and provide opportunities for all including specific target groups in particular.’

The initiative will include programmes, campaigns and capital projects which will add to the long-term impact of the initial funding.

While the initiative is still in the planning stages Cork Local Sports Partnership said they will answer any questions from members of the public.

They are asked to email Alison Chambers and her email address is [email protected]

Plans for a blueway along the river was first mooted almost seven years ago by a then local councillor who had called on Cork County Council to investigate the development of a blueway.

Blueways are a network of multi-activity recreation trails for boating enthusiasts and kayakers based on or near rivers, lakes or canals.