Grand Canal Greenway through Offaly gets massive funding boost
The Grand Canal Greenway project has received a massive boost, following the allocation of almost €4m in funding for various projects along the route.
The biggest single allocation (€2m) goes for work on the section between Turraun and Shannon Harbour.
The proposed extension of the greenway from Turraun to Shannon Harbour received planning approval in 2021 and works are set to commence this month on the first phase, a four-kilometre section commencing at Turraun wetlands and terminating in Falsk townsland, near Gallen, just south east of Ferbane town.
There is also €1m to complete the Daingean to Edenderry section, €500,000 for a link from Leabeg to Boora, €200,000 for Daingean to Tullamore and Henesy's Bridge to Turran, €150,000 for the Grand Canal link to Kilbeggan, and €30,000 for a link between Killina and the school.
Welcoming the funding, Minister of State Pippa Hackett said: “The Grand Canal Greenway is a County Offaly treasure of national significance. I am delighted that this Government continues to recognise its value and this year will invest over €3.8m in its further development.
“The Greenway contributes to the economic growth of both rural and urban areas of our county, promoting tourism and activity-based holidays. I am really excited to see Greenway access to other trails and facilities like historic sites and other outdoor activities develop over the coming years. I believe this will be an important focus of the Just Transition funded Regenerative Tourism Scheme 2023-2026.”
Fianna Fáil TD for Offaly, Barry Cowen said: "I'm also pleased to see over €3.8m allocated for the development of greenways in the county. This funding forms part of the overall Programme for Government commitment of €360 million per annum for walking and cycling, so that more people can choose a safe, sustainable and healthier alternative to private car use.''
In total some €63m in funding has been allocated for the development of around 70 Greenway projects