Exciting news for cycling infrastructure in Fingal – Minister Joe O’Brien

11th February, 2021

Fingal T.D Joe O’Brien has warmly welcomed the news that the National Transport Authority has announced €14,870,000 to support sustainable transport projects across the county. This year’s allocations will support 12 planned projects and 11 new projects in Fingal

Among the major projects scheduled for construction in Fingal in 2021 is the Donabate Estuary Walking and cycling route, Broadmeadow way, the Donabate bridge and infrastructure for Safe Schools projects across the entire county. Some of the new projects unveiled as part of the announcement include walking and cycling infrasture from Baldoyle to Howth and from the Swords Estuary to the Rathbeale Road

Other general projects include the reallocation of overall road space which will include segregated cycling lanes and widened footpaths, cyclist parking, raised pedestrian crossings and reducing road width at crossing points as well as other improvements.

The NTA will be tasked with overseeing and supporting the development of the high-quality mobility infrastructure across all projects. The state agency will also ensure that projects are accessible, age-friendly and maximise comfort to people of all ages and abilities.

Speaking about the funding allocation for Fingal, Minister Joe O’Brien said:

“This significant funding allocation marks a huge step forward in providing green sustainable mobility options in Fingal. I am particularly pleased to see such a focus on the Broadmeadow Way. Linking two of our regional parks for walkers, joggers and cyclists will provide many opportunities not just economically but it will also provide a lasting legacy for the people of Malahide, Donabate, Fingal and indeed the wider Dublin region.”

“During COVID more and more people have been venturing out and engaging in active travel, reconnecting with the wonderful amenities in our local areas across Fingal and this has further emphasised and identified why and where improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure are needed.”

“Improving infrastructure for cycling and walking will make our towns and villages more accessible and attractive for everyone. I look forward to seeing and hopefully using the different projects that will be progressing in the months and years to come.”

Also welcoming the funding wads Cllr Karen Power;

“Over the last number of months Government has funded local authorities across the country to re-orientate road-space toward our pedestrians and cyclists. For me, it is important to see the committement by Fingal County Council in focusing efforts to towards achieving Safe Routes to School, be it walking, cycling, or scooting, for our children in their daily commute to the classroom when schools reopen.”

Anne Graham CEO of the NTA said:

“The announcement today states clearly that the number of people who are choosing to get around by active travel modes is growing. Much of the funding announced today represents new projects for both pedestrians and cyclists which will result in easier and safer travel.

“Walking and cycling represent a growing form of travel particularly in light of Covid-19. Funding will be delivered across a wide variety of regions, bringing the option of cycling or walking to localities both inside and outside the city centres.

“We will continue to work with our partners in the local authorities to ensure the projects announced today become a reality as soon as possible.”

For more information please contact karen.power@oir.ie

Tags: cycling, travel