Work starts on £1.3 m schemeto improvewalking andcycle paths

Work has begun on the £1.3 million ‘Craigavon Community Greenway’ project which aims to encourage and increase walking and cycling on a network of dedicated paths.
A map of the route. INPT34-060A map of the route. INPT34-060
A map of the route. INPT34-060

Craigavon Borough Council will rejuvenate a number of underpasses, provide extra toucan crossings, additional cycle lanes, new lighting, resurfacing, landscaping and new markings.

The revitalisation of the seven-mile cycle corridor links Lurgan and Portadown train stations as well as the hospital and communities.

There has also been extensive engagement with schools along the route to encourage more use when the improvements are made.

A council spokesperson said several underpasses along the route had become areas of anti-social behaviour so, as well as revitalising the areas, there had also been a programme of community centred actions that will help deal with this.

The council secured 100 per cent funding for the project from DRD Active Travel.

Councillor Ronnie Harkness, Chair of Environmental Services, said, “The plans for this cycle corridor have been ongoing now for two years and when completed in March 2015 will ensure that members of the public can avail of a wonderful, safe, rejuvenated facility that can be used by people of all ages whether for leisure time or getting to work or school.

“We look forward to seeing this vital area meeting its full potential and being used and enjoyed by residents for many years to come.”

Currently, the contractor is cutting back overgrown vegetation along the route before moving on to the civil work.