€13.9 million investment in Meath active travel projects

Meath is to receive a €13.9 million investment in walking and travel projects across the county, following funding announced by Transport Minister, Eamon Ryan today.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has allocated funds to Ireland's local authorities with a view to spending €289 million on walking and cycling infrastructure in 2022.

The €13.9million announced for Meath includes a massive €6,765million for projects in Navan including €2.5 million for the Navan 2030 projects at Market Square, Kennedy Road and Trimgate Street, €1,5 million for the Park and Ride facility at the rear of St Patrick's School and €1million for the Proudstown Road to Trim Road cycle network.

The funding also includes €3.4million for the Frederick Street to Ballybin Road work in Ashbourne.

Minister Thomas Byrne has warmly welcomed the announcement.

“This is really positive news for county Meath and represents the strong commitment of this Government to invest in sustainable transport and active travel.

“Today’s allocation increase marks a huge step forward in providing green sustainable mobility options in our Meath towns and villages.

“During the COVID lockdowns we’ve all reconnected with our local areas and can all see why and where improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure are needed. I’m particularly pleased with the allocation of €3.4 million for the continuation of the upgrade works in Ashbourne from Frederick Street to the Ballybin Road and also the allocation of €900,000 towards a footpath and bus stops at Harlockstown.

“Well done to the Transportation Department of Meath County Council who worked extremely hard putting these projects forward” concluded Minister Byrne.

Cllr Sharon Tolan said she was delighted that the NTA have announced the inclusion of the Eastham Road in their Active Travel Investment Grants.

"I have been working with our transportation team on delivering a link between the Tara Road and the new Donacarney footpath and cycle path scheme. This will deliver a safe cycle and pedestrian linkage between Donacarney, Bettystown and Laytown."

"Also included is the commitment to deliver the Donacarney to Bettystown Scheme which is at the Part 8 planning phase and will be scheduled for construction this year.

"I will continue to work on delivering similar schemes for Mornington, Laytown, Julianstown and the wider East Meath area. It’s important that we build on the fabulous addition that the Tara Road has been, and ensure that we deliver safe routes for cyclists and pedestrians throughout the county.

"I look forward to seeing the great improvements on Active Travel that these confirmed funds can bring" she said.