Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Clifford-Lee for raising a subject about which she is very passionate. I also thank her for the good case she made for this greenway.I am pleased to inform her that I launched the strategy for the future development of the national and regional greenways in Moate, County Westmeath, on 20 July. This strategy provides a framework for the development of Ireland's greenways and will determine the type of project to be funded by my Department over the coming decade, as can be seen from the fact that both Commencement matters originally allocated to me today related to greenways. It is a very popular and important topic.

The strategy is long-term in nature, with the aim of increasing the number, length and regional spread of greenways throughout the country. It sets out guidance for project promoters on matters including strategic nature, length, design standards, accommodation works and early consultation with communities and landowners along proposed routes. The strategy also sets out the general high-level criteria regarding what we believe makes for a good greenway - one that is scenic, provides access to things to see and do, is sustainable, is substantially segregated, involves shared use and-or is strategic. This is based on both Fáilte Ireland research and experience on the ground of what has and has not worked with regard to previous investment.

I was happy to secure €53 million in funding for greenways projects to be constructed in the period 2019 to 2021. In addition to the strategy, a funding criteria document that outlines what we are looking for in projects to be funded under this scheme has been published. It is vital that local authorities and State agencies study the document and the application form in detail. There is an information session planned for 24 October that will provide assistance to applicants in understanding the process and requirements.

The funding call for the €53 million is currently open. The application form is available on my Department’s website, along with the strategy and other relevant documents. Following the closure of the application process for the funding call on 30 November 2018, we will assess all applications received and, based on the criteria laid out in the application form and strategy, award funding to the projects we believe meet the criteria. It is also important to note that this is the first funding call. The fact that funding may not be obtained on this occasion does not mean it will not be obtained in the future. It will be important for project promoters to continue working with communities and landowners to achieve agreement on routes that will work for users and landowners.

The positive economic impact greenways can have on their local communities is significant. The Waterford greenway has provided very beneficial to towns along the route. It is likely there will be a number of high-quality applications for funding received.

I understand that the Broadmeadow Way is quite short, measuring only 6 km in length. In the strategy and associated funding call, however, we are focusing on national and regional greenways of scale. The minimum length is 20 km, with a preference for a greenways in the order of 40 km because it is these longer greenways that will generally necessitate overnight stays and thus generate greater economic return on investment in the localities in which they are based. There is also the possibility of strategic sections of greenway being funded. These are sections that extend current greenways or that link to current greenways. The Broadmeadow Way forms part of the greater plans for greenways and cycling infrastructure generally in north County Dublin. It is part of the NTA's greater Dublin area cycle network plan. Another potential avenue for funding this greenway is though the NTA, which is responsible for urban greenways.

I take this opportunity to wish all those applying for funding the best of luck. I look forward to the very difficult facing my Department and me in determining where the funding will be awarded.