Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the announcement of almost €5.8 million in funding for four projects in Galway under the EU Just Transition Fund.
Ballinasloe Municipal District is included in the designated EU Just Transition Territory, making communities in the area eligible for funding aimed at improving local amenities, supporting sustainable development and delivering practical climate action projects.
The Galway funding forms part of a €36 million investment in 33 projects across the Midlands, announced by Minister Darragh O’Brien.
The projects approved for Galway are:
- Aughrim Climate Action Park – €502,315: Funding to transform 1.7 hectares of agricultural land into a new climate-resilient community park, creating an attractive public amenity, improving biodiversity and providing a new green space for the village and surrounding area.
- Ballinasloe Active Travel Scheme – €4,722,712: A major investment in a 1.35km active travel route along the R446, providing new cycle paths, improved footpaths, safer pedestrian crossings, accessible bus stops, sustainable drainage and landscaping improvements.
- Poolboy Footpath to Cúil na Canalacht – €248,508: Construction of 85 metres of new footpath and upgrading of a further 125 metres to improve pedestrian access between the Cúil na Canalacht housing estate and Ballinasloe town centre.
- Shannon Bank Eco Park Development – €318,112: Funding for improvements including solar panels and battery storage, energy-efficiency upgrades, improved accessibility and bicycle parking, biodiversity measures and outdoor learning facilities.
Welcoming the announcement, Minister Canney said: “This is a very positive investment for communities in East Galway and the wider Ballinasloe area.
“These are practical projects that will improve the quality of life for people living in these areas. They will provide better public spaces, safer walking and cycling facilities and amenities that families can enjoy for years to come.”
The funding is being provided through the Supporting a Sustainable Transition through Climate Action for a Resilient Territory (START) scheme, co-funded by the Government and the European Union under the EU Just Transition Fund.
The scheme supports local authority projects aimed at improving community infrastructure, protecting the environment and helping communities make the transition to a more sustainable future.
