€13m war chest for transport projects across the county
24 projects receive funding including the Navan 2030 Scheme with €1m to be allocated for Ashbourne cycle network
AN investment of almost €13 million for 24 sustainable transport projects in Meath has been announced by the National Transport Authority.
Navan will be the main beneficiary with almost €9 million announced for a number of projects including the Navan 2030 scheme, the proposed park and ride facility on the N51 and Navan bus service infrastructure.
Other projects include €1million for the Frederick Street to Ballybin Road cycle network in Ashbourne, 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 €130million as compared to last year’s and will support the addition of 233 new projects to the NTA’s investment programme in 2021.
Of the 24 projects in Meath, eight - attracting funding of over €4million, are entirely new. The remainder are existing projects for which ongoing funding totalling over €8.8million is being provided to Meath County Council.
€1,200,000
Navan 2030 projects to receive funding include the Market Square, Kennedy Road / Trimgate Street and Kennedy Plaza Enabling Works
€3,300,000
Funding for the ongoing works at the Bridge Street and Abbey Road roundabouts
€500,000
for the N51 Park and Ride.
Other Navan projects to benefit include:
€800,000
Proudstown Road to Trim Road cycle network.
€300,000
Fairgreen to Johnstown network.
€600,000
Navan Traffic Management Plan (planning and design).
€1,500,000
Navan Bus Service. infrastructure implementation measures.
€25,000
HGV transport study.
€500,000
Circular Road to Martha's Bridge.
€200,000
Poolboy Bridge to Blackwater Park.
€150,000
Navan - Trim Cycle Route.
Other projects to receive funding are:
€1,000,000
Ashbourne: R135 Frederick St to Ballybin Road.
€200,000
Bettystown to Donacarney.
€100,000
Dunboyne to Clonee bus and cycle scheme.
€150,000
Ratoath Town cycle network
€50,000
Laytown Park and Ride asset renewal.
€50,000
Dunboyne Cycle Network Plan (Planning and Design).
€350,000
Kilberry Footpath Improvement Scheme.
€200,000
Kentstown Road rail bridge and Laytown rail bridge feasibility assessment.
€150,000
Harlockstown pedestrian and bus stop improvement scheme.
€20,000
Bus Stop reconstruction and upgrade, Kells.
The NTA will be tasked with overseeing and supporting the development of the high-quality mobility infrastructure across all projects. The Authority will also ensure that projects are accessible, age-friendly and maximise comfort to people of all ages and abilities.
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-19 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 funding for Navan as a “real boost of confidence in the county town”.
“Navan is without doubt the big winner here from the funding allocation with nearly €9m coming into the town.
“We are working hard to change the overall face of Navan both from a streescape point of view but also from initiatives that will improve public transport.
“So whether that’s the €1.5m for the town bus service measures, the €500,000 for the park and ride on the N51 or the €1.25m for the cycle lanes across the town we are making real improvements.
“What I’m delighted to see though is the €4.5m for the continuation of the works across the various streets in the town that is bringing the quality of the streetscape to a new level.”
Minister Eamonn Ryan said: “I truly believe commutes via cycling and walking represent the best way for people in Meath to get to where they want to go. Since Covid we have seen an increase in cycling and walking, and a reconnection to our local areas. Improving our active infrastructure represents cleaner, shorter and healthier journeys for all.
“The projects that the NTA are funding will make a real difference to commuters and leisure seekers alike. Improving infrastructure for cycling and walking will make our cities, towns and villages more accessible and attractive for everyone. That’s good news for communities, and good news for the economy.
Anne Graham CEO of the NTA said: “The number of people who are choosing to get around by active travel modes is growing. Much of the funding announced this week represents new projects for both cyclists and pedestrians which will result in easier and safer travel.
“We will continue to work with our partners in the local authorities to ensure the projects announced today become a reality as soon as possible."