Warning to Woodstock walkers as works get underway at scenic gardens

WALKERS who love to stroll in Inistioge’s stunning Woodstock Gardens have been warned to expect some disruption as major rehabilitation works get underway from next Monday, February 11.

Kilkenny County Council confirmed there will be disruption to walkers as work progresses.

The necessary signage and notices will be clearly displayed and members of the public are asked to observe the temporary restrictions.

The works come after the local authority secured grant aid under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) for the rehabilitation of existing tracks and trails in Woodstock.

During the various phases in the work, there will be some short term disruption to individual tracks and trails which will impede some regular walkers.

Work on identifying and repairing old drains will be part of the works and there will be machinery on site.

According to the council, the overall objective of the project is “to encourage engagement in outdoor recreational activities”.

The council added: “This development will facilitate the long desired provision of an all-season amenity trail which will reinforce the link between the village and the demesne and allow visitors to explore one of the most scenic heritage sites in County Kilkenny, linking the village and up-grading existing paths and trails/tracks throughout the estate with recently enhanced way-finding and interpretation.

“The proposed works involve the linking of Inistioge village to the Woodstock estate and gardens by means of the existing path network along the River Nore, and through the Woodstock Estate. The paths are very popular with local people but are in poor condition and, as a result, have not been actively promoted as an amenity/tourism resource to date.”

The council said the main problem is the old drainage network laid down in the Victorian era when the estate was developed. Over the years the network has become blocked and diverted, causing damage to surfaces and walls.

The proposed works will involve identifying and locating the original drainage network from old Ordnance Survey maps; clearing blockages and re-opening shores and channels, many of which are still in place.

It is also proposed to erect a canvas image of Woodstock House to the front elevation of the house now in ruins. The facade will show visitors what the House looked like in its heyday and, according to the council, will not interfere with the original structure as it will be constructed as a separate entity.

The image will be in black and white and will be erected in sympathy with the formal Winter Gardens currently being restored at the rear of Woodstock House.