Louth is set to receive €4,600,000 as part of a major national investment in walking, cycling and greenway infrastructure announced by the Government for 2026. The funding forms part of a €360 million package for Active Travel and Greenways, aimed at delivering safer, healthier and more sustainable transport options across Ireland.
The announcement was made by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports Seán Canney, and Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer.
Of the total funding, €290 million has been allocated to the National Transport Authority’s Active and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme. This programme supports the development of walking and cycling infrastructure in villages, towns and cities, and will allow almost 1,000 projects of varying scale to progress in 2026. Schemes included nationwide range from major urban projects to local improvements that enhance everyday travel for communities.
An additional €8 million has been set aside for behavioural change and training programmes. These include CycleRight training in primary schools, as well as the NTA’s Smarter Travel Workplaces and Campuses Programme, which encourages more people to choose walking, cycling and public transport.
A further €62 million will fund Greenway projects across the country, including the South Kerry Greenway and the extension of the Ulster Canal Greenway in Monaghan. This allocation will also support active travel infrastructure along national roads and continued progress on the National Cycle Network, which aims to create a connected cycling network between towns and cities. Projects include new cycleway facilities in Mayo and along key regional routes.
It is expected that around 200 kilometres of new walking and cycling infrastructure will be delivered nationwide in 2026, in line with targets set out in the Climate Action Plan. The programme is viewed as a key measure in reducing transport emissions while improving road safety and public health.
Minister Darragh O’Brien said the funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to sustainable transport in both urban and rural areas.
“The allocation of €360 million in 2026 for active travel and greenway projects demonstrates the Government’s commitment to expanding sustainable transport options and delivering safe and accessible walking and cycling infrastructure. This investment will make walking and cycling a viable option for more people and support the development of a National Cycle Network.”
Minister Seán Canney highlighted the importance of road safety, saying the expansion of walking and cycling networks supports Vision Zero, the national road safety strategy aimed at eliminating road deaths and serious injuries by 2050.
Minister Jerry Buttimer welcomed the funding for Greenways in particular, noting their value to rural Ireland through tourism, local business support and the provision of recreational facilities for communities.
National Transport Authority Chief Executive Anne Shaw said the funding will support every local authority in delivering safer connections, improved public spaces and environments where more people can choose active travel for everyday journeys.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland Chief Executive Lorcan O’Connor added that the 2026 Greenway funding highlights the Government’s commitment to delivering active travel options nationwide, with TII and local authorities working together to deliver these projects.
The €4.6 million allocation for Louth is expected to support local active travel and greenway projects, improving connectivity, safety and quality of life for communities across the county.
