Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon, has announced a £2.8million funding investment package towards the development of six greenway projects.
Minister Mallon made the announcement during a visit to the Lagan Gateway Greenway which will be one of the projects to benefit from investment.
She said: “Since becoming Minister I have made clear my desire to change the way we travel and I have had the opportunity to see and hear at first-hand how greenways can impact our physical and mental well-being, whether that is during a daily commute or to enjoy some leisure time.
“In June I committed £20million for blue/green infrastructure and to working with all Council areas in identifying and delivering active travel and greenway projects. Today I am delighted to commit £2.8million from that fund towards these six worthy projects.
“The four Councils to benefit have indicated that the schemes would be ready to begin work in the 2020/21 financial year. However, it is important to say this is just the beginning. I want to see more greener and cleaner places across our island, where families and communities can thrive. These projects are the start of that change and we need to work together in government, in council and in our communities to deliver more change right across the North.
“Today I have written to each of these councils asking them to urgently submit their business cases so that funding can be secured and construction can begin at the earliest possible opportunity.
“I look forward to seeing the schemes completed and more people out enjoying their local environment, either by walking, wheeling or cycling.”
The six Greenways projects are as follows:
- Forth Meadow Community Greenway (Belfast City Council)
- Lagan Gateway Greenway – from Lagan Gateway pedestrian and cycle bridge to Belvoir Forest Park (Belfast City Council)
- Strabane North Greenway (Derry City and Strabane District Greenway)
- Strathfoyle Greenway – (Derry City and Strabane District Greenway)
- Banbridge Riverside Walk – Lighting Provision (Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council)
- North Down Coastal Path – widening near Stricklands Glen (Ards and North Down Borough Council)
Link to original press release by the Department for Infrastructure
