New cycle and pedestrian scheme linking Carlow and SETU nearing completion

The first phase of a new active travel scheme linking Carlow Town and SETU is now substantially complete, councillors have been told.

The Active Travel Pathfinder – Carlow to SETU Pedestrian & Cycle Scheme Phase 1, aims to provide high-quality, continuous pedestrian and cycle facilities along the R448 to the front of SETU’s campus, improving safety and accessibility for vulnerable road users.

Read next: Carlow Fire Service leads the way nationally with landmark ‘hat-trick’ accreditation

The project also connects with a previously completed shared pedestrian and cycle route running from Munnelly’s Garage to Tyndall College.

Works carried out under Phase 1 have included the construction of 360 metres of a new two-way segregated cycle track, upgrades to 360 metres of footpath, improvements to public lighting, and the construction of a new signalised junction at the main entrance to SETU.

According to an update presented at the April meeting of the Carlow Municipal District by Senior Executive Engineer for Active Travel Seamus Loughlin, the works are now "substantially complete."

The scheme forms part of wider active travel investment aimed at encouraging walking and cycling while improving road safety in the area.

A second phase of the Active Travel Pathfinder scheme is also progressing, extending the route further along the R448 between SETU and the Granby Row Junction.

This phase will complete the active travel link between the town centre Bus Park and key education and sports facilities including SETU’s main campus and Tyndall College.

Priority Construction Ltd have been appointed as contractor, with works having commenced in November 2025.

According to Mr Loughlin construction between SETU and Granby Row Junction is currently "80% complete, with red cycle track surfacing expected to be finished in early May."

Meanwhile works at Granby Row Junction began in recent weeks and are expected to be "fully complete" by the end of July.