Major Funding Boost for Greenways across South East (March 2025)
Greenway projects across the South East are set for a major expansion, with millions of euros in funding allocated to improve cycling and walking routes in Waterford, Kilkenny, and Wexford. This investment, part of Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s (TII) Greenway Infrastructure Programme, aims to boost connectivity, tourism, and sustainable travel in the region.
Waterford Greenway & South East Greenway
Waterford has been awarded over €3.7 million for greenway development and maintenance. This includes €2.5 million for the South East Greenway, which will link Waterford city to New Ross, Co. Wexford, transforming a 24km former railway line into a high-quality walking and cycling route. An additional €1.2 million has been allocated to maintain and enhance the existing Waterford Greenway, a major tourism asset.
Welcoming the funding, Junior Minister and Waterford TD John Cummins stated:
“This is another significant boost for Waterford with millions of euro being announced this morning towards our recreational infrastructure.”
He emphasized the economic and tourism potential of the expanded greenway network, noting:
“When it is fully completed and joined up with the 46km Waterford Greenway via the new sustainable transport bridge on the North Quays site, it will mean there is a 70km-long off-road walking and cycling route between New Ross and Dungarvan. This will be of enormous benefit to the local economy and will attract further tourism into our city and county.”
Kilkenny’s Expanding Greenway Network
Kilkenny has secured €1.7 million for greenway and active travel projects. A key portion of this funding, €400,000, is allocated for a new Inistioge to New Ross Greenway, which will connect to the South East Greenway. Local councillors hope to extend this route to Thomastown, Graignamanagh, and eventually the Waterford Greenway, creating a vast interconnected network for cyclists and walkers.
The funding package also includes €100,000 for greenway engineering support, €1 million for the N76 Callan Bypass, and €200,000 for cycling facility upgrades on the Kilkenny City Ring Road.
Welcoming the investment, Deputy Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere stated:
“Greenways have been a remarkable success for rural Ireland, serving as valuable outdoor recreational spaces for communities and visitors to enjoy. I welcome today’s funding announcement for greenway projects and look forward to the development of new and extended routes in the years ahead.”
Wexford’s Greenway Developments
Wexford County Council has been awarded over €3.15 million to support greenway projects. As the lead authority on the South East Greenway, Wexford will receive €2.5 million to continue construction of the New Ross to Waterford section. Additionally, €100,000 has been allocated for active travel improvements on O’Hanrahan Bridge, which links New Ross (Wexford) with Rosbercon (Kilkenny).
A Transformative Investment for the South East
This greenway investment is part of a €67 million national funding package for walking and cycling infrastructure, with 24km of new greenways expected to be completed in 2025. The government’s commitment to sustainable travel is also reflected in the €293 million Active Travel programme, which supports walking and cycling infrastructure across Ireland.
With these projects, the South East is poised to become one of Ireland’s premier greenway destinations. Local officials and residents are optimistic about the long-term benefits, including enhanced regional connectivity, increased tourism, and greater access to sustainable transport options.
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