Some €62m has been allocated to deliver greenway projects in 2026 as part of a wider €360m investment for the development of walking and cycling projects across Ireland.

The greenway funding will be dedicated to the south Kerry greenway and the extension of the Ulster canal greenway in Monaghan, according to the Department of Transport.

The Active and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme in the National Transport Authority (NTA) was allocated €290m for the development of walking and cycling infrastructure in villages, towns and cities.

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This funding will enable almost 1,000 projects of varying scale to progress in 2026.

An additional €8m is available to fund smaller-scale behavioural change and training programmes.

The remaining The allocation will also enable delivery of active travel infrastructure on national roads, and progress on the National Cycle Network, which aims to deliver a cohesive network between our towns and cities. Significant projects include cycleway facilities along the N60 between Castlebar to Breaffy, and the Blacksod Bay Loop Scheme, both in Mayo.

It is expected that 200 km of walking and cycling infrastructure will be delivered in 2026, in line with the target set out in the Climate Action Plan. This investment programme is a key enabler in reducing our transport emissions.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said that the investment of €62m in our greenways network will help deliver key projects all over the country and is another step towards the development of a national cycle network.

Meanwhile, Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports Seán Canney added that greenways showcase Ireland's beautiful landscape, bringing visitors to overlooked areas and helping small local businesses to thrive.

"Greenways also provide an outdoor recreational facility that all members of the community can enjoy. I look forward to the delivery of new and expanded routes in the coming years," he said