Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 December 2015
21. Deputy Helen McEntee asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of a proposed project (details supplied), including its potential to unlock significant tourism sector employment opportunities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44876/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am reiterating the information I supplied the Deputy with in response to the same question on 11 November last.
Under the National Cycle Network funding programme 2014-2016 Meath County Council submitted a proposal to my Department for the development of the Boyne Valley to Lakelands County Greenway. While it was recognised that the proposal had considerable merit it was not possible to provide funding at that time given that the number of applications received far exceeded the resources available.
I met with a delegation from Meath County Council earlier this year to discuss progress on this project since the application was submitted in 2013. I was glad to learn that in the meantime the project team had progressed the detailed design and preparation of contract documents for the project while continuing to explore potential funding sources.
The cost of delivering the entire greenway is estimated to be in the region of €2.4 million. I understand from my meeting with the Council delegation that the project can be delivered in 2 phases. Phase 1 could run for a distance of 8 km from the town park in Navan to Wilkinstown which would represent a valuable amenity in itself. Phase 2 will run from Wilkinstown to Kingscourt. Cavan County Council are also keen to commence this section of the greenway and the planning and design elements are at an advanced stage.
Given that all Department funding for the purpose of delivering greenways is now fully committed up until 2016, I would urge the Council to continue to progress this project in so far as their own resources allow.
