Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware I worked to secure a substantial mult-annual funding allocation for cycling provision as part of Budget 2018.  The increase I secured has allowed over €110m of capital funding to be directly allocated to develop cycling and walking infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, Galway, Limerick, Cork and Waterford over the period 2018-2021. This programme will provide safe alternative active travel routes that will help alleviate congestion by providing viable alternatives and connectivity with existing public transport infrastructure. Details of individual projects are managed by the National Transport Authority.

Turning to the specific query raised by the Deputy concerning the provision of the greenway between Naas, Sallins and Ardclough, I am advised by the NTA that it has allocated funding to Kildare County Council (KCC) to progress 3 cycle schemes through the design phase, including the Naas-Sallins cycleway project first. This project proposes to provide a pedestrian and cycle route from Newbridge Road to Naas Harbour to Sallins train station. The project is at the Preliminary Design stage and the NTA awaits KCC and their Consultant to deliver that design for approval, prior to public consultation.

Beyond this, the Deputy may be aware that currently the Grand Canal has a dedicated cycling and walking route along the canal from Inchicore to the R120; South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has commenced  feasibility work (with their consultant) to extend the cycleway from the R120 to the Hazelhatch Road (where collaboration with KCC will be required).