125. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Transport to outline the next steps in the progress of the Arklow to Shillelagh Greenway; the measures that can be taken to expedite the project to ensure completion at the earliest possible opportunity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46347/26]

For context, as Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways, while the planning, design and construction of individual greenways is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the relevant local authority.

As you know, the Government has long since recognised the strategic value of greenways as sustainable transport corridors, as well as catalysts for regional economic development, tourism, and community health and wellbeing. As such, I was delighted to be able to allocate €59m to TII this year to support the Greenways and Active Travel on National Roads Programme.

One scheme being supported under this programme is the Arklow to Shillelagh Greenway. In late 2025, this scheme completed Phase 2 (Option Selection) of TII’s Project Management Guidelines. This is a significant milestone in the delivery of the greenway, as it involves identifying a preferred route corridor for the scheme.

Wicklow County Council have procured a technical advisor to help advance this preferred route corridor through the development approval process. Roughan & O'Donovan were the successful tenderer. They have been appointed as technical advisor to progress the project through Phases 3 (Design and Environmental Evaluation) to Phase 4 (Statutory Processes) of the TII Project Management Guidelines.

Phase 3 takes account of technical, environmental, and social factors identified in earlier project stages and will establish the definitive land footprint necessary to develop and operate the greenway. There will also be extensive engagement with affected landowners and stakeholders during this Phase. It is anticipated that Phase 3 will take up to 24 months to complete.

Immediate tasks, over the coming months, will focus upon:

• Engagement with the Arklow to Shillelagh Greenway Committee as well as landowner and stakeholder engagement more broadly;

• Procuring and undertaking necessary engineering and environmental surveys; and

• Advancing design development.

My Department has committed €300,000 to this Greenway project in 2026 and I remain committed to this scheme. I look forward to seeing it progress in the coming years.