Royal Canal Amenity Group (RCAG)

January 2019;

• Dredging has been carried out on the branch line (missing link) from the railway bridge in Longford to Churchlands bridge which is about a 2.55km length of the branch, heading from Longford to the main line of the canal. The project is a joint waterways Ireland and Longford County Council project.

May 2019;

• Waterways Ireland propose plans to reopen the link from the main canal line to Longford Town.
• For more information see; https://www.shannonside.ie/news/local/longford/opw-propose-plans-reconnect-royal-canal-longford-town/

Dredging in progress Jan 2019

Completed 2.55km section; Jan 2019

If you would like to explore the Royal Canals waterway you don’t need to own a barge or boat; It can be done in sections by Kayak; see Kayaking on the Royal

‘Information at you fingertips as you walk, cycle or boat.’ With our Royal Canal Smart-Tags now in place from  Binns Bridge through Ashtown, Castleknock,  Maynooth, Kilcock, Thomastown, Mullingar and Richmond harbour. Details about the canal, its history and local information can be accessed as you make your way along the ‘Royal.’

Provided you have a suitable smart-phone you can access a wealth of information along the canal from Dublin to Mullingar (and eventually to the Shannon when we complete our project later this year).

Information on how to access and use the system is available here

We request all towpath users to please note the following

1. Share the space; Consider other people and the local environment whenever you’re on the canal. Remember some people may move less predictably, for example young children or those with visual or mobility impairments.
2. Drop your pace; Considerate sharing of the limited towpath space is the key. Jogging and cycling are welcome, but drop your pace in good time and let people know you are approaching by ringing a bell or politely calling out before waiting to pass slowly.
3. Pedestrians have priority; Towpaths are shared routes where pedestrians have priority and vehicles, except bicycles and mobility aids, are excluded.
4. Be courteous to others; A smile can go a long way. Abusive or threatening behaviour is not acceptable and should be reported to the Police.
5. Follow signs and obey local by-laws; They are there for the safety of everyone. Cyclists should dismount where required and use common sense in busy or restricted areas, recognising that pedestrians have priority.
6. Give way to oncoming people beneath bridges; Whether they are on foot or bike and be extra careful at bends and entrances where visibility is limited.
7. When travelling in large groups; Give way to others, especially if you are running or cycling, use common sense.
8. Try to avoid wearing headphones; Headphones makes you less aware of your surroundings, possible hazards and others sharing the same space.
9. Keep dogs under control; Ideally use a short lead on busy towpaths and clean-up after them. Dog fouling is very unpleasant and is a health hazard.
10. At all times, keep children close to you; Encourage them to learn and follow the rules for towpaths.

See the video below from the Canal & River Trust in the UK

[youtube https://youtu.be/eSduEHApvns]