Velorail tourism project reaches fruition

The setting up of a Velorail Project in Kiltimagh County Mayo which is the first not only in Ireland but also the UK was thought of by two local and forward thinking people, the late Brendan Killeen and Francis McNicholas both members of the local Tourism Association. That was over ten years ago and it took until 9th June 2023, following many difficulties and setbacks to realise the dream. The idea was popular at the time in several European countries particularly France where it was set up in 2004. Today there are over 50 operators around that country.

Sixty years ago Kiltimagh railway station virtually closed down with the ending of the passenger line. For the following twelve years goods traffic passed through but eventually the station closed completely in 1975. Before too long the building became a derelict site.

At the beginning of the 1990’s Mayo County Council leased the station to Kiltimagh IRD, CLG a local organisation which was formed in 1989 and has since instigated many improvements around the town including, an International Trade Centre, voluntary housing scheme, playgrounds and tidy towns projects. They set about refurbishing the station so maintaining a piece of history for future generations. However the tracks remained disused and became overgrown in many places.

The idea of introducing a Velorail was supported by the County Council and an approach was made to then Minister of Transport Leo Varadkar TD who referred them to CIE/Irish Rail. An agreement was reached to licence 13km of track to the council. Fast forward some to some years later, the lines were repaired all the infrastructure was put in place, statutory issues resolved so the IRD then set about sourcing suitable Rail Bikes.

On a beautiful sunny June summer morning a large number of dignitaries and local people attended the official opening and unveiling of a plaque on the station building by Michael Ring T.D.

Speaking at the launch Joe Kelly Chief Executive of IRD pointed out that for many generations the Kiltimagh railway station was the avenue by which people from the area emigrated to the UK and USA looking for work and to build a new life. Most never returned. “Some sixty years after the last passenger train came through this station, the Veloril has started to carry passengers once more….. Kiltimagh Station through the Velorail will hopefully become a contributor to economic development and employment creation and sustainability in Kiltimagh”, he said.

The Velorail project involves running pedal powered carriages along a railway line and is an ideal form of exercise for a family or group of friends.

It is suitable for all ages and abilities. As you pedal along the open countryside admiring the stunning scenery there is a great sense of relaxation. The starting point is the station and you will travel either north or south depending on route is essential to book in advance. Members of staff are on hand to help visitors on arrival and explain the rules and safety issues before they set off. At each of the finish points users are requested to dismount and take a short rest while a staff member rotates the carriage on the track.

The project was delivered by IRD Kiltimagh CLG and supported by Mayo Co.Co., Irish Rail, Dept. of Rural and Community Development and Mayo Local Action Group under the Rural Development Programme LEADER 2014-2022.

The town of Kiltimagh attracts many tourists annually and it’s believed the new Velorail could bring up to 30,000 visitors per year. On a visit you can enjoy taking a trek around Sliabh Cairn, a spot of angling, perhaps a round of golf. or explore the Museum and the Arts Exhibition Centre complete with Sculpture Park. The town has two hotels, the 4 star Park Hotel and 3 star Cill Aodain Court.