Enhancing the 'Stairway to Heaven'

Tipperary Co Council has been asked to consider an enhancement to the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ walking route to the Millennium Cross in Portroe.

Cllr Fiona Bonfield tabled a notice of motion on the matter at the May meeting of the council’s Nenagh Municipal District. She was told that the route is important for tourism in the area and the council would meet with the Millenium Cross Committee to discuss improvements that could be made.

Cllr Bonfield said the route is widely used but features a number of sections that older people find difficult. She mentioned plans to hold an open-air Mass at the top of the ‘Stairway’.

In support, Cllr John Carroll described the route as a “treasure trove all the way back to Ballina… It’s a ready-made abundance of heritage.”

Cllr Phyll Bugler said the ‘Stairway’ was used during the Quest adventure race. But these walkways in general are under-used, she said, adding that people would come and stay longer in the area if they knew about such walks.