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Ireland has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform the country into a cycling haven by 2040 through the National Cycle Network. The proposal aims to establish a network of 3,500km of cycleways, connecting over 200 cities, suburbs, and towns. Primarily integrated with existing roads, the plan prioritizes segregated cycle lanes, particularly in busier areas, while shared spaces may be utilized on quieter routes.

The network is strategically designed to link settlements with populations of 5,000 or more, featuring local spurs extending to public transport hubs, schools, colleges, business parks, leisure facilities, and tourist attractions. Envisioned as a versatile infrastructure, it is intended for practical transport, commuting, leisure, exercise, and activity holidays.

The Department of Transport estimates that 2.8 million people live or work along the proposed network, with 80% of households and 89% of jobs within 5km of a cycleway. The ambitious project is projected to cost between €1.5bn and €1.9bn and is expected to be completed by 2040, with the majority of the work scheduled between 2031 and 2040.

Key features of the plan include 85 main ‘corridors’ running alongside existing roads, each 4km wide. The final routes and roads will be determined through standard design, planning, and environmental assessment procedures. Of the 3,500km, 400km is already in use as greenways or other cycling infrastructure, 900km is part of existing greenway plans, and the remaining 2,200km will be newly developed.

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan unveiled the plan during the official opening of the latest extension to the Grand Canal Greenway. He announced the fast-tracking of an additional 1,000km of greenway and cycle routes by 2030, with the complete network scheduled for realization by 2040.

Cyclist advocacy group, the Irish Cycling Campaign, welcomed the plan but stressed the importance of ensuring adequate cycleways for smaller towns and villages, providing access to rural areas. The group emphasized the significance of making local trips, such as those to schools and shops, safe for active travel.

The initiative aligns with the coalition’s commitment to enhancing cycling infrastructure, addressing the persistently high reliance on private cars for daily travel and the growing carbon emissions from the transport sector.

Source: Irish Independent