The site is often referred to as “Aggie’s Inch” as a tribute to Aggie Sheehan, who passed away in 1985 and generously donated the land to the community. The area also remembers Patrick Downey, who died in 2011 and was a passionate advocate for the conservation of this space and the enhancement of biodiversity in the locality.

Headley’s Bridge has always been a focal point for Knocknagoshel and for the Angling Club. Historically the area was a busy centre of activity, home to the parish creamery, several shops, a café, petrol station and a handball alley. The river here was also the location of many local fishing competitions during the 1990s and 2000s.

While the area has fallen into disuse in recent years, KEAA sees huge potential to restore it as a shared community and environmental space.

Today the association is being revitalised by a new generation of volunteers who are using KEAA as a vehicle for environmental and community development projects in the parish.

Our work focuses on improving land and water management, supporting recreational activities such as angling and walking, and strengthening the connection between Knocknagoshel village, Aggies Inch river walk and Headley’s Bridge.

You can listen to Bill Morrell speak about KEAA on a podcast series called ‘Come West Along the Feale’ in episode three. https://www.radiokerry.ie/podcasts/comewestalongthefeale/

KEAA’s vision is to help create a healthy and vibrant community within a nature-positive environment. Through community events, environmental education and collaboration with farmers, anglers and local organisations, we aim to protect and enhance the land and waterways that shape our area.

Whether you are farming, fishing or fighting for the environment, we all share a common goal — to take care of our land and water for the next generation.