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A new shared footway/ cycleway from McCann's Corner/ Fiveways up to Derrybeg Lane is expected to be completed by early summer but presently there is no news of any further active travel initiatives getting underway in Newry City with everything at 'discussion stage'.
Work seems to have slowed in recent weeks on that development, which will see a 3 metre wide route for walkers and cyclists with provision of a proposed Toucan crossing to aid pedestrian and cyclists travelling to Newry train station.
A DfI spokesperson explained that work is ongoing with the scheme in conjunction with an existing planning application for residential development along Craigmore Way, and that as part of the project the developer will be constructing a link to the path across their frontage. The spokesperson added that work is still ongoing, and the scheme is due for completion by early summer 2023.
Regarding any potential new Active Travel routes in Newry City the DfI spokesperson said "DfI has met with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council on several occasions to discuss active travel opportunities and is aware of the council’s greenway masterplan. All proposed options are currently at discussion stage." in addition the spokesperson said "Active Travel plans for the 2023/24 year are currently being developed and any that are selected to be taken forward will be included in the Annual 2023/24 Roads Report to Council."
In November Infrastructure Minister said he would set up a cross-departmental working group to "maximise opportunities for active travel and greenway development which can boost tourism as well as connecting communities and assisting with health and wellbeing through increased opportunities for walking and cycling.” Currently this doesn't seem to have happened but the DfI spokesperson said they are working to examine a joined up approach to active travel "The Department has been working with local councils and Sustrans to develop a new model for the delivery of greenways projects. A cross-departmental working group is still planned to be established to examine a joined-up approach to active travel across central and local government."
Better provision of safe routes for cyclists could lead to less traffic congestion on our streets. Currently cycling infrastructure in Newry City Centre is notable by its absence or in the case of the Armagh Road due to it not being physically separated from motor traffic feels quite unsafe, especially for children.
