Permission given for amenity

A NORTHSIDE councillor has welcomed An Bord Pleanála’s decision to grant planning permission for a new amenity in Fingal.  

Cllr Cian O'Callaghan (SD) said the decision to grant permission for the Baldoyle to Portmarnock cycling and walking route is very positive news. 

“This key piece of infrastructure will form the first part of the Sutton to Malahide Greenway and will provide continuous, dedicated cycling and walking infrastructure near the Fingal coastline,” he said. 

"Over the next few years these new routes will connect with infrastructure coming on steam such as the Malahide Castle to Newbridge House cycling and walking route.

“This new infrastructure will benefit commuters, local residents, visitors to the area and tourists. 

“With large scale development taking place in Baldoyle, Portmarnock and surrounding areas, it is important that this project is delivered in a timely fashion.”

Fingal County Council also said it is delighted that approval has been given for the construction of the 1.8-kilometre route.

The Greenway will run for most of its length along the boundary of the new Racecourse Park on an off-road route parallel to the existing Coast Road. 

When completed, the scheme will provide a continuous pedestrian link between Baldoyle and Malahide and represent a major new amenity for the area.

The detailed design of the route takes specific account of the coastal setting and ecology of the area. Construction will take approximately one year to complete.

Mayor of Fingal Cllr Anthony Lavin said: “The approval of the Baldoyle to Portmarnock cycleway highlights Fingal’s commitment to sustainability and preservation of the county’s environment. 

“With an active cycling community in Fingal, this cycle route will be a positive addition to the county’s travel infrastructure.”

Fingal County Council chief executive Paul Reid said: “Having a dedicated cycleway and pedestrian lane will make travelling safer and more enjoyable for pedestrians and cyclists. 

“The Baldoyle to Portmarnock Greenway will also allow tourists to view Fingal’s incredible coastline and natural landscape.”

Director of Planning and Strategic Infrastructure, at the council, AnnMarie Farrelly, said: “We are delighted that construction of the first stage of the Greenway has been approved.

“With 88 kilometres of coastline, Fingal has great potential for the provision of cycleways which will improve sustainability, transport infrastructure and the health and well-being of our residents. 

“The Bayldoyle to Portmarnock route is the first phase of a major initiative to provide a Greenway along the entire coastline of Fingal.”

The cycleway will cost approximately €2.5 miilion to construct and further phases of the project are progressing through the planning and design process.