€1.2m for Carrigaline cycle network

MINISTER FOR Transport Noel Dempsey has announced funding of €1

MINISTER FOR Transport Noel Dempsey has announced funding of €1.2 million for a new cycle and walking network in one of the most car-dependent towns in the country. Mr Dempsey said the provision of the funding would allow for the construction of 7.4km of cycle paths in Carrigaline in Co Cork which would link residential areas with schools, local GAA pitches and an existing industrial estate in the town.

“Carrigaline was approved for funding for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is one of the most car-dependent areas in Ireland, with 74 per cent of people commuting by car to work, so there is a lot of room for improvement,” said Mr Dempsey.

“Secondly, Cork County Council came up with an excellent project which offers a new predominately off-road cycle network which, among other things, connects to four local schools and popular sports facilities.”

Mayor of Cork Derry Canty welcomed the development, and said the 3m-wide cycle track network would be of major assistance in reducing traffic congestion.

Barry Roche

Barry Roche

Barry Roche is Southern Correspondent of The Irish Times