EXTENSIVE works on the 3km footpath that leads straight to the summit of Errigal have been completed after two years, making the mountain more accessible to walkers of all abilities.
The two phase project which was undertaken by McGowan Environmental Engineering, based in the North of Scotland will also allow for re-vegetation of the eroded and damaged ground at the base of the mountain.
The work has been ongoing since summer 2022 when 1.4km of path was constructed from the existing car park.
The Scottish contractors then returned in June 2023 to complete the the second phase of the project.
During this time the team laid a base of stone transported to the mountain by Skyhook, a Scottish helicopter company.
The stone was filled into concrete skips before being flown from the car park to the top of the mountain.
The team then topped the base with dust gravel excavated from Gillespie’s Quarry in Gaoth Dobhair and used natural stone from the hillside itself to build the stone steps which also act as a drainage system.
A group of local men were subcontracted to help the McGowan Environmental Engineering staff who are specially trained to work in remote and sensitive environments.
Speaking about the project, Environmental Contracts Manager, Sam Hesling, said:
“Delivering the Errigal contract is a testament to the hard work of our project team, collaboration with key partners – including Donegal County Council and Errigal Mountain – and the service we received from our supply chain, including Skyhook Helicopters and Gillespie Quarries .
“We are always exploring opportunities to expand our footprint in Ireland, and would be delighted
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