TOURISM MINISTER SHANE Ross has announced funding for Greenway projects in four counties.

Kildare, Meath, Longford and Westmeath will each each benefit from the €3.5 million fund.

Ross said that since becoming minister he has “been particularly struck by the far-reaching benefits that greenways can bring to the localities in which they are situated as is evidenced by the success of the Great Western Greenway [in Mayo] and other projects around the country”.

He added that, aside from jobs, local businesses will benefit from visitors eating and staying in the area.

Great Western Greenway / Facebook Great Western Greenway / Facebook / Facebook

Ross said the funding became available after money awarded to projects under the National Cycle Network funding call of 2014 was not fully drawn down.

I am confident that the projects in Longford and Westmeath will be finished by the end of this year whilst the project in Kildare and Meath will be finished by the end of 2017.

“These projects build on the great success of the Old Rail Trail between Athlone and Mullingar and will provide the country with a long distance, multi-day, off-road cycling route that I’m sure will prove to be a great attraction for tourists, both foreign and local, and indeed anyone looking for a wonderful day out,” he added.

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