The National Transport Authority has allocated €3,283,000 to Laois for sustainable transport projects across the county.
Three footpaths, The Rock Footpath Scheme, Rathleague Footpath Scheme and the N80 Carlow Road Stradbally Footpath Scheme have each received €300,000.
Two of these – The Rock footpath which is near the school and the N80 project which is set to service the road up to the graveyard in Stradbally, are projects that have been called for by people involved for a number of years.
The Ballyroan Footpath Scheme and Triogue Blueway, Portlaoise have each been allocated €250,000.
€100,000 has gone to Dublin Road, Portlaoise – Pedestrian, Cycle and Traffic Management Scheme and two more projects have received €50,000.
Beladd Cycle Scheme Portlaoise and Portlaoise Cycle Parking have each benefitted from the funding.
The news has been roundly welcomed by politicians with Fianna Fail’s Sean Fleming saying he looks forward to Laois County Council carrying out the works approved by the NTA as soon as possible.
He said: “These are excellent projects which were submitted by Laois County Council and it is excellent news that funding has been approved.
“This funding is to facilitate cycle ways, walking ways and footpaths to encourage people to be more active in their daily lives.
“Cycling and walking is not only good for people’s physical health but is also vital for people’s mental health and general well-being.”
Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan said: “Speaking this morning, Deputy Flanagan said: “I welcome Government confirmation that the sum of €3,283,000 has been allocated to Laois County Council under the Active Travel fund.
“The fund has a particular focus on rural areas and providing safe infrastructure to ensure local communities are better connected in terms of walking and cycling.
“I am really pleased that funding has been granted for The Rock Footpath Scheme which I campaigned for and a transport study and mobility plans for Portlaoise, Portarlington & Mountmellick and County Cycle Network Plan.”
