Labour Councillor Elaine McGinty has welcomed the funding announced today for improved walking and cycling infrastructure in East Meath and South Drogheda which she says will promote active travel and help Ireland meet its climate targets. 

“Following my representation to the NTA and Meath County Council I am delighted that the following funding for active travel has been announced” McGinty said.

• Drogheda R132 / Meadowview Cycle Scheme €100,000
• Donacarney Footpath & Cycleway Scheme €500,000
• Bettystown Eastham Road Cycle Facilities €200,000 

“This funding represents substantial investment of new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure and includes the development of segregated cycle lanes and widened footpaths and new pedestrian crossings.   

“The benefits of this investment are immense for the local community. Not only are we making our towns and villages greener and more livable, but we are also helping to reduce carbon emissions.

“In transport, we have a significant challenge to reduce our emissions by 50% by 2030 across the country.  To achieve this, we must encourage more people to choose sustainable ways of travelling. Once these walk and cycle ways are completed, they give people an alternative to make the sustainable switch.” 

“In addition, the Beamore Road is to receive additional €215k upgrade works at the Plattin junction and a further €105k for works at Beamore Cross.  Having previously requested that Meath County Council undertake a traffic survey and assessment of the Beamore junction, this investment is most welcome and timely.

!In recent months a number of large Strategic Housing Developments have come to on stream, and I hope that the council will now apply for more strategic funding that will address capacity in the long term.”