Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
194. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport what he considers to be best practice in relation to consultation on route selection for greenways through urban areas, noting that his Code of Best Practice for National and Regional Greenways contains guidelines for engagement with landowners and interested groups in rural areas yet has no such guidelines for urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12927/24]
View answerThe Code of Best Practice for National and Regional Greenways was developed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport in 2021 and includes information on the planning, design and construction of Greenways as well as an overview of the public consultation processes involved. The Code is relevant to Greenway projects falling under the remit of TII, which are known as National and Regional Greenways and are generally over 20km in length.
Urban Greenways more often fall under the remit of the National Transport Authority (NTA) who are responsible for the Active Travel Infrastructure Programme, mainly based in urban areas in local authorities around the country. As well as such Greenway projects, the Active Travel Infrastructure Programme delivers cycle lanes, footpaths and school-based projects under the Safe Routes to School Programme. All NTA projects comply with their guidelines on consultations.
Noting the role of the NTA in these projects, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer in relation to those guidelines. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
