New National Cycle Network for Ireland Public Consultation

Construction is currently underway for the 11km stretch of the Grand Canal Greenway, running from Sallins to Alymers Bridge. John Craddock Ltd. was awarded the contract after a competitive tendering process, and work began on-site in October 2022. We anticipate substantial completion by November 23, 2023.

We understand that construction work may cause some disruptions and inconvenience, but we are committed to minimizing these wherever possible. Unfortunately, the area between Sallins and the railway bridge will experience the most significant impact, as we construct the soil nailing system, bridge abutments, and green steepened slopes. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and will continue to work efficiently to complete the project as soon as possible. Please see the list of current closures along the route below.
With the addition of the new hub, visitors will have access to a range of amenities, including bike rentals, picnic areas, and a café.

The restoration of the railway goods shed is a significant part of the project. The building, which dates back to the mid-1800s, was once a bustling hub for goods and passengers travelling between Limerick and Tralee. However, in recent years, the building has fallen into disrepair, and it has been out of use for many years.

The restoration of the railway goods shed will preserve an important piece of Irish history while also providing a new space for visitors to the area. The project will be carried out in a way that is respectful of the building’s heritage and will aim to maintain as much of the original structure and features as possible.

In addition to the restoration of the railway goods shed, the Limerick Greenway hub will also feature a range of new facilities, including a bike rental station, a café, and a picnic area. The aim is to provide visitors with everything they need to enjoy their time on the Greenway, whether they are cycling or walking the route.

One of the key features of the new hub is its universal accessibility. The developers have gone to great lengths to ensure that the facilities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their mobility level. This includes the installation of wheelchair ramps, accessible toilets, and other features that make the site fully inclusive.

Overall, the Limerick Greenway hub promises to be a fantastic addition to the West Limerick region. The restoration of the railway goods shed will provide visitors with a glimpse into Ireland’s rich history, while the new facilities will make it easier than ever for people to explore the stunning countryside. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a casual walker, the Limerick Greenway hub is sure to be a destination worth visiting.

Grand Canal Greenway Phase 1 Sallins to Alymers Bridge

Written by Kieran Kelly



News



0 Comments(s)



May 9, 2022

TII would like to hear peoples’ views on an ambitious proposed 3,500km National Cycle Network for Ireland.
This core cycle network will roll out in the coming years and connect key destinations across the country with safe and attractive routes, including more than 200 villages, towns and cities.
The network will make it easier and safer for more people to cycle for commuting, leisure and tourism, reducing reliance on the car.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) today launched plans for an ambitious National Cycle Network (NCN), a planned core cycle network of 3,500km that will criss-cross the country, connecting more than 200 villages, towns and cities. The network will include cycling links to transport hubs, education centres, employment centres, leisure and tourist destinations, and support “last mile” bicycle deliveries.

For background, last year, the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan requested TII to lead the development of a new NCN for Ireland. Since Autumn 2021, TII has worked with a range of partners, including the Department of Transport, to develop a draft NCN for public consultation. It is anticipated that the final plan, which will take into account public feedback and ideas, will go for Ministerial approval in Quarter 3 this year, in line with the Climate Action Plan. Thereafter, the NCN will move quickly into implementation phase.

Minister Ryan said: “The expansion of our cycling network is key to enabling everyone, young and old, urban and rural, to enjoy and make the switch to cycling. Whilst we will continue to invest in Greenways like the Galway to Dublin route currently under development, this is not only about providing cycleways for long distance cyclists. This proposed network’s focus is on everyday travel and use – connecting village to village, town to village, city to town. It’s another step in connecting our communities, to enable and encourage as many of us as possible to choose the bike when travelling. The network will connect into other sustainable transport modes, enabling further onward travel using the bus, train and by walking”.

The NCN map incorporates many existing and planned Greenways as well as a range of proposed new cycle routes, as part of its proposed national cycle corridors. The NCN will also complement and integrate local cycling development projects and Greenways. It will enable people to easily cycle to the centre of villages, towns and cities, being developed by the Active Travel programme as overseen by the National Transport Authority (NTA). It is envisaged the most of the NCN will be delivered by local authorities over the coming years.

Minister of State Naughton commented: “The NCN will provide benefits for cyclists and local communities across the country. It will help commuters, leisure users and tourists to choose to cycle, encouraging a modal shift to a healthy form of travel and helping to reduce carbon emissions from transport. The NCN will be made up of accessible, sustainable and high-quality routes. Both road safety, and the safety and security of cyclists, will be central to its development.”

The public consultation on the new NCN is open from Wednesday 4th May to Tuesday 7th June 2022. The NCN map, background information, as well as details on how to have your say, can be found online here.