Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 May 2023
59. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Transport his views on the criteria by which greenway routes are selected in relation to their capacity to help achieve modal shift in adjacent towns and villages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20806/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways.
The Department directly funds the development of National and Regional Greenways that exceed 20km in length (to include shorter distances where it is planned that to join an existing Greenway route to form a longer route exceeding 20km).
Greenways are mainly used for recreational purposes by pedestrians, cyclists and people with impaired mobility for non-motorised journeys. As set out in the Strategy for the Future Development of National and Regional Greenway, the criteria used to approve funding for specific Greenways include the Scenic and See and Do criteria which outlined that a route should be strategic, scenic, sustainable, offer lots to see and do, are substantially segregated and for shared use. The tourism potential of a Greenway and whether it would provide a strategic link to other activities and locations are also considered relevant criteria in considering the approval of a route.
These criteria may assist with modal shift especially when linked with other cycle infrastructure. In addition, Transport Infrastructure Ireland have developed a guidance document (‘Project Appraisal Guidelines for National Roads Unit 13.0 - Appraisal of Active Modes’) that provides guidance on calculating the benefits associated with modal shift on active travel infrastructure projects including greenways. As the approving authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) are responsible for the planning, design and construction of Greenways which typically connect urban centres. TII are aware of the need for “last mile” linkages into urban centres working with the National Transport Authority and local authorities to facilitate these links with a recent example being the project to complete a 2km link between Bilberry and Waterford City Centre which will extend the Waterford City to Dungarvan Greenway.
Noting also the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
