Greenways Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020

Tuesday, 3 November 2020

Ceisteanna (369)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

369. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in respect of the allocation of funding for the completion of the Grand Canal greenway with particular reference to the section of greenway between Dublin and County Kildare near Celbridge which remains outstanding; when such funding is likely to be approved given the importance of such a facility in the current environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33780/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport

I very much look forward to the Grand Canal Greenway being fully completed over the coming years and am sure it will provide an excellent resource for people travelling to work, school and for leisure as well as a tourist attraction in its own right.

Last year funding was announced to support Kildare County Council’s development of the Greenway between Aylmer Bridge (near Celbridge) and Sallins. Budget 2021 has allocated additional funding to support walking and cycling and an additional €1.3m will be allocated to the Council next year which should see that particular section completed in 2021.

The section between Aylmer Bridge and the 12th Lock in Lucan will be considered in future funding calls, while the Deputy may wish to be aware that South Dublin County Council is separately being funded by the National Transport Authority to progress a link, commencing at the 12th Lock and continuing through Lucan, between the Grand and Royal Canals.