£160k supportfor Granshagreenway

Communities Minister, Paul Givan, announced support for phase 4 of the greenway, which will include the creation of a 0.5kms pedestrian and cycle path and the provision of street lighting and litter bins, on Tuesday.

The funding has been made available to Derry City and Strabane District Council who are working in partnership with the Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT) and the Department to deliver the project.

Minister Givan said: “This project is a great example of partnership working between my Department, the Council and the Trust to deliver improvements for the local community.

“The extension of the Greenway network will provide direct access into the Gransha estate, creating a safe and accessible route for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy and brings my Department’s investment in the Waterside Greenway to a total of over £600,000.”

Sinn Féin Councillor Christopher Jackson said: “Sinn Féin have campaigned for the development of greenways for a number of years. We believe they have huge potential in attracting activity tourist markets as well as being an invaluable health and wellbeing resource for local communities.

“This comes following the recent exciting news that a new £15million pound Greenways project is to take place on two of the main arterial routes between Derry and Donegal.”

Enagh Youth Forum also welcomed the announcement and said they hoped it would lead to further progress on the proposed extension of the popular cycle path and footway all the way to Strathfoyle.

“Securing this greenway extension out to Strathfoyle remains a top priority that has long been identified by the local community,” said the Forum.

“It is included as a top priority in the Strathfoyle Community Plan 2015-2020 and is now also included in the Draft ‘Faughan’ Community Plan. Its time to bring this project to full fruition,” the Forum added.