WORK has commenced on the development of a 5km (approximate distance) looped route path in the Devenish area of Enniskillen to facilitate shared use for walking, running and cycling.

The work is being undertaken by McCusker Contracts Ltd after securing a £289,500 contract for the project, known as ‘The Wide Awake Way’, which is being delivered by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in partnership with Lough Erne Landscape Partnership (LELP) and Devenish Partnership Forum with funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, Ulster Wildlife and Sport NI.

Works will include widening and regrading of the current path, construction of new sections of path linking to the existing path network between Erne Health Centre, Erne Campus, Donnelly’s Field and the Cornagrade Road, before joining in with an existing path along Irvinestown Road and Racecourse Lough.

In addition to the path works, the project will include the installation of trail heads and interpretive signage highlighting historical points of interest along the route.

A spokesperson from Devenish Partnership Forum said: "We are very happy that this partnership project is progressing. These paths connect our community to nature and the new signage will also connect us to our rich history and heritage.

"The paths will enhance the existing paths in the area which are so beneficial to health and wellbeing. We look forward to building upon this positive work in the further development of our local nature reserve which adjoins the route."

George Lucas, Chair of Sport NI, said: “The development of this project will enable sports participation in the beautiful Lough Erne landscape, particularly increasing [the numbers of those who are] running and cycling which will have a positive impact on participants’s mental and physical health.

"This project will provide a unique opportunity to engage in sport whilst being amongst nature and wildlife.”

Elmarie Swanepoel, programme manager of Lough Erne Landscape Partnership, said: “The Wide Awake Way will provide an opportunity for the local community and visitors alike to enjoy the magnificent natural beauty of the waterways around Enniskillen, whilst exploring the history of the development of the town, including important features like the Enniskillen workhouse, Tori gate and the Wide Awake Cargo boat.”

Dawn Miskelly, director of development and engagement of Ulster Wildlife, said: “The development of a high-quality looped route will allow residents of the area direct, doorstep access to a quality and accessible route. It will facilitate shared use for a variety of ventures including recreation, heritage and biodiversity.”

In order to accommodate construction works, stretches of path will be temporarily closed on dates from now until Friday, October 1.