Expanded Network for Green Pathways in the Northern Regions
Greenways, networks of trails and open spaces designed for walking, cycling, and other non-motorized activities, are set to connect counties Donegal, Derry, and Tyrone by 2024. The North West Greenway Network, a cross-border project, aims to link people with places locally, regionally, and nationally, improving their social, economic, and environmental wellbeing.
The project, which has received funding of €14.8 million from INTERREG VA, with a total project cost of approximately €20 million, is creating a network of greenways in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The North West Greenway Network's infrastructure is being developed by various contractors, with several projects nearing completion by March 2024.
One such development is the Culmore Greenway, being constructed by Northstone Ltd, which is anticipated to connect Derry to Buncrana, with a spur to Newtowncunningham, incorporating Bridgend, Burnfoot, Fahan, and Lisfannon (32.5km). Another is the Lifford-Castlefinn Greenway, being delivered by ACS Civils, and the Bay Road Bridge and Greenway project, being delivered by FP McCann. The Strabane North Greenway project, a 1.4km route, is also on programme to complete by March 2024.
Muff - Three Trees Greenway is being constructed by E Quinn Civils, with completion anticipated by March 2024. Route 2 of the North West Greenway Network connects Derry to Muff, incorporating Thornhill College, Culmore Country Park, and Muff (10.5km).
The North West Greenway Network offers a variety of activities, including training and support for active travel, cycle training programs, bike maintenance demonstrations, and awareness-raising led walks and rides. For those interested in changing travel attitudes and behaviors in schools or workplaces, the North West Greenway Network's Active Travel team is available for support via email.
Match funding for the project is provided by the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland) and the Department for Transport (Republic of Ireland). The North West Greenway Network's website provides access to engagement activities, events, and tools for individuals, schools, and workplaces.
While the North West Greenway Network project ended in December 2023, local government websites, community news outlets, outdoor and cycling organizations, and tourism websites might offer insights into the current status of the network, its infrastructure, or upcoming events in County Donegal and the Republic of Ireland. For the most current information, it is recommended to check these sources.
The North West Greenway Network, with projects such as the Culmore Greenway and Muff - Three Trees Greenway under construction, aims to promote sustainable living by encouraging non-motorized activities, thereby contributing to the environmental-science sector and improving the lifestyle of local communities. Homes and gardens along these greenways may also benefit from increased access to outdoor spaces and the overall improvement of the environment due to the emphasis on home-and-garden landscapes within the network's infrastructure.
