€12.8 million for sustainable transport projects in Meath

An investment of €12.8 million for sustainable transport projects in Meath has been announced by the National Transport Authority this morning.

Navan will be the main beneficiary with €4.5million announced for the Navan 2030 scheme as well as €500,000 for the proposed park and ride facility on the N51 and €1.5 million for Navan bus service infrastructure.

Other projects include €1million for the Frederick Street to Ballybin Road cycle network in Asbourne, as well as cycling and park and ride projects across the county.

The announcement for Meath is part of €240million to support sustainable transport projects across the country. This year’s allocations have increased by just over €130m as compared to last year’s and will support the addition of 233 new projects to the NTA’s investment programme in 2021.

Minister for EU Affairs and Meath East TD 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.

“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.

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

Senator Shane Cassells welcomed the announcement which he said would be a huge improvement in infrastructure in the county and would encourage cycling and the use of public transport.

"I am particularly pleased to see the Park and Ride facility to the north of the town included. People want to use public transport if the facilities are provided," he said.