Coalisland Canal Walkway Officially Launched After Major Improvement Works

The newly enhanced Coalisland Canal Walkway has officially opened following improvement works funded through the COVID Small Settlements Scheme. The project has delivered new landscaping, seating, bins, cycle racks, planting, paved areas and feature signage, creating a safer and more welcoming outdoor space for walkers, cyclists, families and visitors.

Coalisland Canal Walkway Officially Reopened

The Coalisland Canal Walkway has been officially launched following a major programme of improvement works designed to enhance access, safety and outdoor recreation in the area.

Mid Ulster District Council marked the milestone on 3 June 2026, bringing together elected representatives, council officers, funders, community groups and local residents to celebrate the newly revitalised walkway.

The project was delivered through the COVID Small Settlements Scheme, which was established to support smaller communities that were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Useful link:
Read the official Mid Ulster District Council announcement

Coalisland Canal Walkway Improvements

The improvement works have transformed the canal corridor into a more attractive and accessible public space.

The scheme included:

• New grassed and paved areas
• Raised planters
• New shrubs and trees
• Additional bins
• New seating
• Cycle racks
• Feature signage at the entrance to Gortgonis
• Landscaping improvements along the route

These upgrades are expected to encourage more people to use the walkway for walking, cycling, family outings and everyday outdoor activity.

Funding Through The COVID Small Settlements Scheme

The COVID Small Settlements Scheme was created by the Department for Communities to direct investment into smaller towns and villages across Northern Ireland.

Funding involved three departments:

• Department for Communities
• Department for Infrastructure
• Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

The Coalisland Canal Walkway project was selected as a priority because of the canal’s historical and environmental importance. The route also needed improved access and safety for walkers, cyclists and families.

Useful links:

• Department for Communities Small Settlements Programme
• Department for Infrastructure Coalisland Canal Walkway information

Infrastructure Minister Welcomes Coalisland Investment

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins welcomed the completion of the scheme and said the programme showed how departments can work together to support rural communities.

Minister Kimmins said:

“The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a great example of how inter-departmental working can deliver real change for rural communities. I am delighted that my department was able to contribute to this programme in Coalisland, which has transformed the local landscape and increased opportunities for outdoor activity and active travel. I hope the local community enjoy these improvements and will be encouraged to consider active travel methods for their shorter everyday journeys.”

The investment supports active travel by making it easier for local people to walk or cycle for short trips.

Council Chair Says Walkway Is A Cherished Local Asset

Speaking at the launch, Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Deirdre Varsani, described the opening as an important day for Coalisland and the surrounding area.

Councillor Varsani said:

“This is a truly wonderful day for Coalisland and the surrounding communities. The canal walkway is a cherished local asset, and thanks to this investment through the COVID Small Settlements Scheme by the Department for Infrastructure, the towpath has been transformed into an accessible space that everyone can enjoy safely and comfortably.”

She added:

“Tá súil againn go dtéann níos mó daoine amach agus taitneamh a bhaint as an gceantar agus na h-áiseanna feabhsaithe / We hope that even more people go out and enjoy the area and facilities.”

Supporting Health, Wellbeing And Outdoor Recreation

The enhanced Coalisland Canal Walkway also supports Mid Ulster District Council’s wider aims around health, active living and place-making.

Council representatives said the improvements are expected to increase footfall throughout the year. The upgraded route gives residents and visitors a safer, more comfortable place to enjoy the outdoors.

The project also supports community wellbeing by encouraging:

• Regular walking
• Cycling
• Family time outdoors
• Active travel
• Better use of local green spaces

Historic Importance Of Coalisland Canal

The Coalisland Canal has deep historical significance for the town and wider Mid Ulster area.

It formed part of the Tyrone Navigation, one of Ireland’s earliest inland waterways. The canal corridor is an important local heritage asset as well as a valued recreational space.

The enhanced walkway is expected to support tourism, improve the visitor experience and complement wider regeneration efforts in Coalisland.

Useful link:
View visitor information for Coalisland Canal Walk

A Boost For Coalisland And Mid Ulster

The official launch of the Coalisland Canal Walkway marks a positive step for the town.

With new landscaping, seating, cycle facilities and improved access, the walkway is now better placed to serve local residents, families, cyclists and visitors.

The project also shows how targeted investment in public spaces can improve community life, support local heritage and encourage healthier everyday habits.

Useful links for readers:

• Mid Ulster District Council official announcement
• Visit Mid Ulster Coalisland Canal Walk information
• Department for Communities Small Settlements Programme
• Department for Infrastructure Coalisland Canal Walkway information

Have you visited the newly enhanced Coalisland Canal Walkway yet? Plan a walk, bring the family, or enjoy a cycle along one of Coalisland’s most historic outdoor routes.