£2.8m package announced for greenway projects

by Q Radio News

A funding package worth £2.8m has been announced for the creation six greenway projects across Northern Ireland.

Four council area are to benefit from the funding.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon says it's expected that the projects will begin this year.

The six new greenways will be located at:

• 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)

Nichola Mallon said: “In June I committed £20m 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.

She continued: "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.

I am delighted today to announce £2.8m for 6 greenways across NI. This is just the start of the change we need to deliver greener, cleaner places that promote active travel, connect communities and improve lives. #Change4Change #GreenerCleanerPlaces https://t.co/ZyHvzddRxY pic.twitter.com/I7kKYf7BNv

— Nichola Mallon (@NicholaMallon) September 16, 2020

“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 money from the department will provide half of the overall costs of the projects. Councils will now need to provide business cases to the department, stating that they will fund the other 50%.