Lough Key Forest Park
New funding has been announced for Greenways for Leitrim and Sligo, with €2.93 million allocated to expand walking and cycling networks in the region.
Greenways provide safe travel options for cyclists and pedestrians while also boosting tourism.
The Sligo, Leitrim, Northern Counties Railway (SLNCR) Greenway will receive €1.2 million.
This project, led by Leitrim County Council, in collaboration with Sligo and Cavan County Councils, as well as Fermanagh and Omagh District Council aims to develop a greenway connecting Sligo town to Enniskillen.
The route will pass through Collooney, Ballintogher, Dromahair, Manorhamilton, Glenfarne, Blacklion, Belcoo and Letterbreen.
Additionally, the South Leitrim Greenway has received €100,000 while €400,000 has been allocated to further develop the connection between Carrick-on-Shannon and Lough Key.
The Sligo Greenway from Bellaghy-Charlestown-Collooney has been allocated €200,000.
Sligo-Leitrim TD Deputy Frank Feighan has welcomed the funding announcement.
“I’m delighted to see that €2.93m has been allocated for Greenways in Sligo and Leitrim. This funding will be used for the development of walking and cycling facilities that offer safe, sustainable, and healthier transportation options to communities.
“Our Greenway plays an important role in supporting local communities to create jobs and brings visitors to our area.
“Greenways across Ireland have been a huge success, showcasing our beautiful landscape, bringing visitors to overlooked areas and helping local businesses to thrive and create a space in our communities that everyone can enjoy,” he said.
Deputy Feighan emphasised the importance of this funding in improving connectivity and enhancing quality of life for people in Leitrim and Sligo, adding that he looks forward to the development of new routes.
“Our local Greenway will encourage tourism in the future, and provide a safe, segregated space for people walking and cycling.
“As the days are getting longer people in this region are eager to get out into nature and Greenways offer a safe, sustainable, healthy option,” concluded Deputy Feighan.
READ MORE: Leitrim businesses seek rebates after power outages
Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie
Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.
Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.