The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway has received national recognition after being named Best Transformative Capital Project at the LAMA All Ireland Community and Council Awards.

The award reflects the greenway’s impact on recreation, active travel and community life across County Meath since its official opening in 2024.

From Disused Rail Line to Regional Asset

Developed along a former railway corridor, the greenway now links Navan, Wilkinstown and Nobber, providing a high-quality shared route for walkers and cyclists. What was once an overgrown and unused rail line has been transformed into a well-used recreational and transport corridor.

The project was years in development and required sustained coordination between transport bodies, the local authority and local representatives.

Securing the Corridor

A critical early milestone was securing a lease agreement for the disused railway line from Iarnród Éireann. That process required prolonged engagement and cooperation.

Mick Danagher, who served as Projects Manager with Iarnród Éireann during key development years, played an important role in progressing the lease arrangements that ultimately made the project possible.

Eugene Cassidy was also closely involved throughout the campaign and development stages, advocating for the reuse of the rail corridor and supporting efforts to bring stakeholders together. His long-term engagement helped maintain momentum during periods when funding and formal approvals were still being pursued.

Local Authority Backing

Meath County Council provided consistent institutional support from the outset. Notably, the council committed financial resources during early stages when national funding was not yet secured, allowing preparatory works and planning to advance toward shovel-ready status.

That combination of political advocacy, institutional backing and cooperation with transport authorities was central to the project’s eventual delivery.

Continuing Evolution

The greenway continues to evolve, with further enhancements and connections under consideration. Its growing popularity has reinforced its position as a significant regional asset and a contributor to active travel, tourism and community wellbeing.

While national awards recognise completed achievements, the longer-term measure of success will remain sustained usage, integration with surrounding towns, and continued development of the wider route network.