Date: 24 January 2021
€239m has been allocated for 2022 by Minister Eamon Ryan to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for Local Authorities to build, design and improve cycling, pedestrian, and green routes. Green Party TD Steven Matthews says that Co. Wicklow has done very well out of this national funding with 58 active transport projects across our county benefiting from this year’s fund. Deputy Matthews said:
“These projects cover the entire county and will benefit residents from Arklow to Bray and across West Wicklow. Projects such as the Arklow to Shillelagh Greenway, phase 2 of the Bray Public Transport Bridge, transport studies for Greystones to support future funding and works in Blessington and Wicklow Town will make roads and footpaths safer, accessible, and attractive to cycle and walk.
“Many people want to cycle but feel the cycle lanes are unsafe so this funding will improve and provide safe segregated cycle lanes and improve those that are in poor condition. The provision of Safe Routes to School has been a long-time priority of mine and this funding will go towards creating safe walking and cycling routes to schools and better pedestrian permeability through our residential areas and towns.
“This type of investment is real climate action at local level, providing those that wish to cycle, walk or scoot to school, work or the shops with safe and attractive routes and road space allocations to achieve that safely and enjoyably. Reducing car dependency, congestion and noise and improving air quality is good for all of us but especially for our children and future generations.
“On entering Government, The Green Party negotiated agreement for €360m per year for improving cycling and walking across every town and village and for staff resources at local authority level to design and build that infrastructure. We also agreed a 2:1 spend of the transport budget on public transport over new roads. There will be continued investment in roads maintenance for those that need to drive but the emphasis now is on active travel and public transport.
“I am delivering for Wicklow on public transport with the DART to Wicklow Town, a big increase in rural bus services and express bus services on the N11. This funding for active travel delivers on my commitment to improve road safety and for cyclists, pedestrians, school children and all road users.
“If anyone has suggestions for improvements to their local areas, I would be happy to meet and to liaise with Wicklow County Council to start assessing for 2023 and to ensure that all Wicklow residents, cyclists, and school children continue to benefit from safe routes and roads across all towns and villages in Wicklow, concluded Deputy Matthews.
Comments