Greenways

This article – featuring greenways – which I think have the potential to enhance rural economies suggests that little Northern Ireland is well ahead of the game for once. It tells us:

Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has given the green light to 1,000km of greenways in Northern Ireland.

The minister said he will be providing £160,000 in grants for 10 councils to work up 20 different greenway proposals in their areas.

Walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages will be able to use the traffic-free routes.

Mr Hazzard said the plans will focus on delivering a 400km primary and 600km secondary greenway network, connecting towns and cities to villages and countryside.

He was speaking during a visit on Wednesday to a disused railway track outside Dundrum, Co Down.

The minister said: “I am delighted that councils have been part of the development process for this strategic plan and I look forward to working with them in the coming months and years.

“To demonstrate my commitment, I have more than doubled the initial funding for the grants scheme from £64,000 to £160,000.

This means that feasibility studies can be worked up on 20 different proposals right across the north to help councils deliver greenways in their areas in line with this strategic plan.