NTA announces €240m boost for sustainable projects in Ireland

Enjoying Ireland's beautiful cities and scenery on two wheels could get even easier

The National Transport Authority in the Republic of Ireland has today announced funding totalling €240m to support sustainable transport projects across the country. This year’s allocations have increased by just over €130m as compared to last year’s and will support the addition of 233 new projects to the NTA’s investment programme in 2021.

Among the major projects scheduled for construction this year are the Clontarf to City Centre route in Dublin, the Mahon to Marina Greenway in Cork, the Castletroy Greenway in Limerick, Parkmore Improvement Works in Galway and the Bilberry to City Centre route in Waterford.

https://twitter.com/corkcitycouncil/status/1359838791821885440

General projects in the scheme include the reallocation of overall road space, which the NTA says 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.

“Today’s allocation increase marks a huge step forward in providing green sustainable mobility options to our cities, suburbs and hinterlands,” said Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD.

“During COVID we’ve reconnected with our local areas and can all see why and where improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure are needed.

“The projects that the NTA are funding will make a real difference to commuters and leisure seekers alike. Improving infrastructure for cycling and walking will make our cities, towns and villages more accessible and attractive for everyone. That’s good news for communities, and good news for the economy.

“I look forward to seeing and hopefully using the different projects that will be progressing in the months and years to come.”

Anne Graham, CEO of the NTA, added: “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.”