Plans for a new ‘inner city’ greenway for Newry have taken a major step forward.
For it has been identified as one of six new ‘signature’ schemes – together with another connecting to Portadown railway station – under Active Travel plans.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has now confirmed that consultants have been commissioned to “progress” all six – including Newry – in what are described as “major” schemes.
The Minister – an elected member for Newry and Armagh – said: “I recently had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the Newry to Carlingford Greenway which is enjoyed by many people and I heard about the many benefits the scheme brings for the local community and for tourism.
“Progression of the Newry Inner City Greenway project will complement that further by connecting the newly completed Greenway to the Newry Canal towpath to Portadown.”
Minister Kimmins added: “I am committed to providing cleaner and greener travel options for people. Active travel is good for the environment and can help to improve the health and wellbeing for those who choose to walk, wheel or cycle for some of their shorter everyday journeys.
“These six significant active travel schemes, with a combined length of 40km, are a tangible demonstration of that commitment.
“Meaningful engagement with the public is key to delivering projects of this nature and my Department will bring preliminary proposals to the public for input once these have been suitably developed.”
In addition to the inner city Newry greenway, the Black Paths extension to Portadown railway station is also included.
The other four are Sydenham; Maydown to Campsie; Bellarena to Bishop’s Gate; and Coleraine to Portstewart.
Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has welcomed progress, describing it as a “positive step in providing cleaner and greener travel options for people”.
The Newry and Armagh Assemblyman said: “Progress on these schemes, following the recent announcement of £1million for active travel schemes in other areas, demonstrates the Minister’s commitment to creating a cleaner environment and opportunities for improving the health and wellbeing of those who choose to walk, wheel or cycle.
“I look forward to future engagement with the Minister and her department on these active travel projects.”
