New National Cycling Network in Ireland to provide a whopping 3,500 kilometers of bike corridors

In a landmark move, the National Cycling Network (NCN) is set to weave its way across Ireland, providing 3,500 kilometers of secure bike corridors and connecting a staggering 2.8 million people residing in cities and towns nationwide.

Today, Minister of Transport, Eamon Ryan T.D., applauded the unveiling of this transformative plan, heralding a new era of cycling infrastructure within the country.

The NCN blueprint outlines a comprehensive network comprising 85 corridors, seamlessly integrating existing greenways, Eurovelo routes, and innovative cycle paths along established roads. The grid aims to enhance accessibility to vital destinations such as transport hubs, educational centers, employment zones, and tourist attractions, facilitating safer and more convenient cycling options for communities throughout Ireland. The overarching goal is to ensure that 80% of households and nearly 90% of jobs lie within five kilometers of the network.

And, it’s not just connecting routes that are already constructed. The network would add another 1,000 kms over the next half-dozen years, said Minister of Transport, Eamon Ryan T.D. at the launch of the Grand Canal Greenway.

“It is great to launch this plan today here along the Grand Canal Greenway, because it shows that we are already well on the way to developing this new visionary national cycling network, with plans also underway to fast-track delivery of a further 1,000 km of cycle routes by 2030,” he said.

The Grand Canal Greenway is a new and scenic 11-kilometer stretch of bikeway from Alymers Bridge to Sallins, Co. Kildare. Once completed, this greenway will offer an uninterrupted, predominantly segregated route spanning the entire 130 kilometers from Dublin to the River Shannon.

Integral to the NCN’s development are more than 400 kilometers of existing greenways and cycling infrastructure, which will serve as primary arteries within the network. Additionally, more than 900 kilometers of planned and proposed greenways will be integrated, ensuring extensive coverage across the country. To complement these green routes, the remaining 2,200 kilometers of the NCN will traverse existing road infrastructure, with measures in place to segregate cyclists from vehicular traffic, thereby prioritizing safety and comfort.

The NCN initiative forms a pivotal component of the government’s commitment to expanding active travel and greenway infrastructure, aligning with ambitious targets outlined in the Climate Action Plan, which mandates a 51% reduction in transport emissions by 2030.

Under the National and Regional Greenways program, significant investments have been made by the Department of Transport, facilitated through Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), totaling approximately €12 million towards the development of the Grand Canal Greenway since 2020, with an additional €5 million allocated to the Aylmer Bridge to Sallins section. These investments have primarily focused on enhancing the surface quality and widening existing pathways to adhere to best practice standards.

Implementation of the NCN will occur in phases, with an estimated 1,000 kilometers (28% of the network) projected for completion by the end of 2030 as part of Phases 1 and 2. Phase 3, encompassing the period between 2031 and 2040, will finalize the network’s expansion.

Funding for the NCN will be drawn from existing National Development Plan allocations, specifically from the €360 million earmarked annually for active travel and greenways. The anticipated cost for delivering Phases 1 and 2 of the NCN stands at approximately €677 million up to 2030, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable urban development and accessible transportation infrastructure.

As the NCN takes shape, it promises to redefine urban mobility, fostering healthier, greener, and more interconnected communities across Ireland. With cycling emerging as a cornerstone of sustainable transportation, this ambitious undertaking heralds a future where pedal power drives progress towards a more sustainable and inclusive society.