Green TD Steven Matthews has called on all new and returned councillors on Wicklow County Council to prioritise the completion of all pedestrian and cycling infrastructure projects funded by the NTA’s record €8.5 million investment in Wicklow earlier this year. Projects include cycle and pedestrian improvements for Ashford, Bray, Kilcoole, Blessington, Delgany and Killincarrig, and also includes further transport plans for Greystones, Rathnew and Arklow. Safe school zone funding has also been allocated for Greystones, Kilmacanogue and Dunlavin. Deputy Matthews said:
“I am calling on all Councillors in Wicklow to ensure that all these projects are completed as soon as possible. Safe pedestrian and cycle routes in towns and villages can transform communities. Providing this infrastructure gives an alternative to car dependent journeys and makes walking or cycling a more accessible, attractive and safe option for people of all ages.
“I am constantly meeting with residents in Wicklow who tell me they would like to walk or cycle but don’t feel safe enough. There is a need for more cycle lanes and footpaths across the county and particularly in rural villages which lack this infrastructure. Providing separate footpaths and cycle lanes means that cyclists and pedestrians don’t have to take their chances in traffic. We must ensure that everyone has the option to travel in comfort and safety using active modes of transport.
“Since the Green Party entered Government, spending on cycle lanes and footpaths has increased more than six-fold. I have seen the benefits of this approach in County Wicklow with massive investment made each year into local road, footpath, and cycle improvements.
“I look forward to working with Councillors from all political parties in the coming months on both the NTA funding projects and on other concerns impacting local residents in Wicklow,” Deputy Matthews concluded.
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