€2.35m funding to complete Grand Canal Greenway from Tullamore to Daingean
28th June 2019
A NEW section of the Grand Canal Greenway will now be completed from Tullamore to Daingean following the allocation of €2.35 million in funding.
The extra finance for Offaly County Council and Waterways Ireland was announced by the Minister for Tourism and Transport, Shane Ross on Friday last.
The development has been hailed by local Fianna Fail Dail Deputy, Barry Cowen who paid tribute to Offaly Co. Council CEO, Anna Marie Delaney and previous council members who “initiated and drove this concept.”
He said the extension would link Lough Boora to the Grand Canal and added that further linkages were 'imminent to the likes of Clara Bog.”
“These are great amenities for locals and visitors alike,” stressed Deputy Cowen.
Tullamore Fine Gael councillor, Neil Feighery said the allocation demonstrated the “Government's commitment to enhancing our recreation and leisure facilities across Offaly.”
Congratulations to everyone involved in making this successful submission to the Government for funding, This collaboration between the council and Waterways has reaped huge dividends for the county,”outlined Cllr Feighery.
Minister Shane Ross revealed the local allocation when he announced funding of \40m for ten greenway projects across the country on Friday.
He outlined: 典here was a very high level of interest in this funding call with 22 applications received. We have chosen, following a detailed assessment process, ten projects that will expand our network of Greenways around the country, building on what has already been achieved and laying the groundwork for continued expansion over the next decade. We have seen the benefits that the Waterford and Great Western Greenways have brought to towns like Dungarvan, Kilmacthomas and Newport. We want to see that type of benefit accruing to towns like Listowel, New Ross, Blessington and all the other towns and villages on the Greenways that we are providing funding to today. We will see many of these in use around the country during Bike Week.
"The projects funded through these allocations will provide safe, substantially segregated Greenways that give users access to the beautiful scenery that Ireland is renowned for and will bring new visitors to the many attractions there are to see around the country. All projects will also make provision for the All-Ireland pollinator plan to increase our bio-diversity and respect our environment," pointed out the Minister.
Ger Scully