A £2.8million funding packagen has allocated for the developement of six greenway projects across Northern Ireland.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon made the announcement on Wednesday.
It is understood that investment package will provide 50% of the costs for each scheme.
However, local councils need to provide business cases to the Department indicating part funding of the other 50%.
Greenways in Belfast, Derry and Strabane, Banbridge and North Down are set to benefit.
“Since becoming Minister I have made clear my desire to change the way we travel and I have had the opportunity to see and hear at first-hand how greenways can impact our physical and mental wellbeing, whether that is during a daily commute or to enjoy some leisure time," Minister Mallon said.
“In June I committed £20million for blue/green infrastructure and to working with all Council areas in identifying and delivering active travel and greenway projects.
“The four Councils to benefit have indicated that the schemes would be ready to begin work in the 2020/21 financial year.
"However, it is important to say this is just the beginning.
"I want to see more greener and cleaner places across our island, where families and communities can thrive."
The six greenway projects set to benefit are:
- Forth Meadow Community Greenway (Belfast City Council) – total capital costs £750,000
- Lagan Gateway Greenway – from Lagan Gateway pedestrian and cycle bridge to Belvoir Forest Park (Belfast City Council) – total capital cost £1.1 million
- Strabane North Greenway (Derry City and Strabane District Greenway) – total capital costs £980,000
- Strathfoyle Greenway – (Derry City and Strabane District Greenway) total capital costs £2.56 million
- Banbridge Riverside Walk – Lighting Provision (Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council) – total capital costs £180,000
- North Down Coastal Path – widening near Stricklands Glen (Ards and North Down Borough Council) total capital costs £25,000
Minister Mallon added: "These projects are the start of that change and we need to work together in government, in council and in our communities to deliver more change right across the North.
“Today, I have written to each of these councils asking them to urgently submit their business cases so that funding can be secured and construction can begin at the earliest possible opportunity.
“I look forward to seeing the schemes completed and more people out enjoying their local environment, either by walking, wheeling or cycling.”
