Whopping €855,000 for greenways in Offaly under ambitious national plan

A WHOPPING €855,000 in grants have been allocated to greenways in Offaly under an ambitious new national plan.

Greenways in Daingean, Edenderry, Leabeg, Boora, Turraun, Shannon Harbour and Banagher are set to benefit under the initiative.

Earlier this week Minister for Transport, Darach O’ Brien and Ministers of State Seán Canney and Jerry Buttimer announced €67 million in funding for Greenways and National Roads Active Travel infrastructure across Ireland.

This funding will be provided through Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and is dedicated to improve walking and cycling facilities that can promote more sustainable and healthy transportation options to all.

This money will be used to finance approximately 60 Greenway projects. It will also be used to deliver active travel infrastructure on national roads, which will progress the National Cycle Network which currently has around 3,500 kilometres of cycling corridors which connects 200 cities, towns and local villages.

This €67 million programme to develop greenways is on top of the €293 million which has already been allocated to the National Transport Authority (NTA), to fund the Active Travel programme which aims to increase the number of walking and cycling networks so they can become more popular methods of transport. These networks would be in the form of improved pedestrian environments, segregated cycling lanes, pedestrian and cycling bridges and crossings.

Of this €67 million, €855,000 has been allocated to Offaly. This funding will be used for five main projects:

• Grand Canal – Daingean to Edenderry: €650,000

• Grand Canal – Kilbeggan Link: €30,000

• Grand Canal – Leabeg to Boora: €25,000

• Turraun to Shannon Harbour: €120,000

• Grand Canal Greenway – Shannon Harbour to Banagher: €30,000

Local Fianna Fail TD Tony McCormack TD outlined the huge benefits that greenways bring to Offaly.

“As someone who regularly uses greenways – whether running, cycling, or, as I get older, walking – I know first hand how valuable these routes are for our community. They encourage healthy lifestyles, provide a safe and sustainable transport option, and are a fantastic boost for local tourism and businesses.”

Deputy McCormack explained that these greenways are more than just walking and cycling paths – they bring economic, social, and environmental benefits.

“Greenways create jobs, help small businesses thrive, and reduce dependence on cars. They also showcase the incredible beauty of Offaly, attracting visitors and boosting the local economy.’

He believes that this is just the start of even more investment in Offaly’s active travel infrastructure.

‘We have a real opportunity to transform Offaly into a hub for outdoor recreation. Greenways provide a safe space for families, commuters, and tourists alike. This funding is a major step forward, but I will continue pushing for further investment in our local greenway network.”

Fine Gael TD John Clendennen said that this funding will make Offaly a healthier and more sustainable place to live. He went on to say that the continued expansion of walking and cycling networks are key in offering safe travel options to pedestrians and cyclists.

‘I’m delighted to see €855,000 has been allocated for Greenways in Offaly. This funding will be used for the development of walking and cycling facilities that offer safe, sustainable, and healthier transportation options to communities.

Deputy Clendennen emphasised the numerous advantages that greenways have shown in the past few years.

“Greenways across Ireland have been a huge success, showcasing our beautiful landscape, bringing visitors to overlooked areas and helping local businesses to thrive and create a space in our communities that everyone can enjoy.

“Our local Greenway will encourage tourism in the future, and also provide a safe, segregated space for people walking and cycling.

Finally, he ended in explaining how the people will use these greenways and will benefit all.

“This funding is key to enhance connectivity and improve the quality of life in our communities in Offaly.

“As the days are getting longer people in Offaly are eager to get out into nature and Greenways offer a safe, sustainable, healthy option.”