Derry–Buncrana and Lifford–Derry greenways among projects funded under Shared Island Initiative

Funding for 2026 and 2027 has been confirmed for Sligo-Enniskillen, Derry to Buncrana, Warrenpoint to Newcastle and Lifford-Derry projects.

The Shared Island Greenways Development Fund will support implementation of the National Development Plan objective to ‘continue development of an island-wide greenway network to link the Atlantic coast with the Eastern seaboard across the border region’. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the delivery of greenways schemes in the border region. Shared island funding will be used in conjunction with other funding sources to progress four greenway schemes, where possible.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I am very pleased to announce funding to advance development of four greenway schemes in the border region through the Shared Island Greenways Development Fund. This funding will help progress four schemes - Sligo to Enniskillen, Lifford to Derry, Derry to Buncrana and Warrenpoint to Newcastle - through design and planning phases. Building on the success of the Carlingford Lough Greenway and the North West Greenway Network, the development of these new routes will improve connectivity, generate sustainable tourism and recreation, and boost the local economy in each region. This is also an important step towards creating an island-wide greenway network to link the Atlantic coast with the Eastern seaboard across the border region - a key objective under the revised National Development Plan.”

Minister for Infrastructure in the Northern Ireland Executive, Liz Kimmins said: “Through collaborative working with our counterparts in the Government of Ireland, I’m delighted that funding has been identified to further expand our cross-border greenway network and to build on the success achieved to date.

Cross-border greenways provide a transformative opportunity to enhance sustainable transport, tourism and regional connectivity. This funding demonstrates commitment to further develop sustainable transport on a cross-border basis. This all enhances the island of Ireland as a place where people want to live and work, to visit and invest.”

Sinn Féin Councillor Christoper Jackson has welcomed the announcement of funding towards the development of four greenway projects in the border region under the Shared Island Greenways Development Fund.

Christoper Jackson said: “It is really great to see this investment as part of the Shared Island Greenways fund in these Greenway projects, especially from a local level the investment from Derry to Buncrana and Lifford-Derry projects.

"I want to commend Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins on her collaborative work with the Irish government to secure this funding.

“These Greenways will bring positive benefits to the local community, allow for greater active transport options, and strengthen all-island connectivity.

“It will also provide a safe environment for walking and cycling and help link cities, towns and villages providing a great economic and tourism potential.

"I look forward to seeing the work progress on these projects that will enhance the lives of those who work, live or visit the local community."

Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien said: “Greenways have represented a tremendous success for rural Ireland showcasing our beautiful landscape, bringing visitors to overlooked areas and helping small local businesses to thrive as well as providing an outdoor recreational facility that all members of the community can enjoy. I welcome today’s funding announcement for Greenways in the border region which reflects the Government’s commitment to balanced regional development and all island collaboration through the Shared Island initiative. This fund will support local authorities in delivering these projects.”

The Derry to Buncrana and the Lifford to Derry Greenway will complement the North West Greenway Network which has delivered cross-border greenway and active travel connectivity between Derry and Donegal.