Swords has been listed as a priority location in the new National Cycling Network plan published this week.
Cycling corridors between Swords and a number of towns and villages (Malahide, Ashbourne, Donabate, Skerries and Balbriggan) are all part of the new proposals.
The National Cycling Network aims to connect population centres and transport hubs right around the country – providing 3,500kms of cycle tracks between now and 2040.
The plans aim to provide fully segregated cycling tracks, where feasible. The plans give strong support for the connection between Swords and the Broadmeadown Greenway which is currently under construction.
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Cllr Ian Carey said:
“This is a very positive plan for the residents of Swords. It gives very strong priority to a cycle track between Swords and Malahide – which I have been pushing for since being elected. It’s crucial that Swords is not left behind from the major cycling investment in the Fingal Coastal Way and this clearly gives Fingal an incentive and funding stream to make it happen.
“The link proposed between Swords and Asbourne is also a very positive for this area. I proposed a motion during the development plant to list an indicative line for a greenway between Swords and the Meath border, through Rolestown. This is now central to the plan to link Swords with Ashbourne, Rathoath, Dunshaughlin, and Navan. This link will have to be provided as a greenway of cycletrack as there is no space on the existing road. An off road greenway linking Swords, Rolestown, and Ashbourne would be a massive benefit to the communities along the Broadmeadow but also an incredible recreational facility for the whole county. I will be pushing hard to make this happen.
“As with all plans of this scale the question is ‘when?’. The priorities set in the plan suit Swords. They are defining priority based on the population within 4km of the network. With a high population by comparision to other areas I would be hopeful we high priority for our connections. The plan is to roll out 300kms of the network in the next year.”