Budget sought for upkeep of Donegal’s greenways - Donegal News

A SPECIFIC budget is being sought for the maintenance of Donegal’s greenways.

These are predominantly traffic free paths designated for use by pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorised users in mainly recreational environments.

Donegal has a number of greenway projects that are either completed or in planning or development stages. They are funded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the Department of Transport.

The subject was raised at the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District (MD) meeting on Tuesday by Independent councillor Michael McBride.

He asked: “That Donegal County Council write to the TII asking that a specific budget be allocated for the maintenance of greenways.”

Cllr McBride praised the many “successful;” greenways across the county. However, he claimed that some are “not being used” due to maintenance issues.

“Over the last number of years there’s been a considerable amount of greenways rolled out across Donegal,” he said. “In my own area from Illistrin to Kilmacrennan, there’s always people using it.

“I think there’s so many people using it because it is kept in a good condition.”

However, he added: “There’s many fantastic greenways that people aren’t using because there’s too many stones and the grass isn’t cut.”

The motion was seconded by 100% Redress councillor Tomás Sean Devine.

As the motion was passed, Cllr McBride was informed that arrangements will be made to write to the TII.

Small sections of greenway have already opened along the old Letterkenny to Burtonport railway route. Ambitious plans have been outlined for further development.

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