3km-long, fully segregated pedestrian and cycle route in Balbriggan officially opened

Harry Reynolds Road Pedestrian & Cycle Route in Balbriggan was officially opened today by Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Brian McDonagh, in the presence of Minister for Transport and Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O’Brien TD. This project is a significant step forward in enhancing connectivity and promoting active travel in Balbriggan. 

The contract for Harry Reynolds Road Pedestrian & Cycle Route was awarded to Jon’s Civil Engineering Co. Ltd and construction works began in 2023. Key features of the €16m upgrade include a 3km-long, well-lit and fully segregated pedestrian and cycle route, designed to promote confidence and safety when walking, wheeling and cycling. Other improvements include 13 safe controlled crossing points, wide cycle-tracks and footpaths, new zebra and toucan crossings as well as signage and road markings to indicate shared space for cyclists. 

Balbriggan is home to one of Ireland’s youngest populations and this project provides increased connectivity in the Balbriggan area, linking multiple schools, housing estates and industrial premises. The schools served by the new route are: St Molaga’s SNS, Loretto Secondary School, Balbriggan Community College, Bracken Educate Together NS, Ardgillan Community College and Gaelscoil Bhaile Brigín. The project offers enhanced accessibility and encourages children and their parents to choose active travel as their main form of transport. 

At today’s opening ceremony, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Brian McDonagh, said: “The Harry Reynolds Road Pedestrian and Cycle Route will enhance the active travel network for Balbriggan. By providing a cycle-link connecting the six local schools along the route, it encourages the local school users to embrace a greener alternative to get to and from school safely. As a long-time cyclist myself, I can appreciate how the well-designed and inclusive cycling route creates a safer environment for the community to enjoy their beautiful town.”  

Minister for Transport and Minister for Climate, Environment, and Energy, Darragh O’Brien TD, stated: “This project represents a significant milestone in our commitment to promoting active travel. By encouraging walking and cycling as sustainable transport options, we are fostering lifelong healthy habits as well as reducing emissions. The Harry Reynolds Road Pedestrian & Cycle Route will benefit Balbriggan and its surrounding areas for generations to come.” 

This project is aligned with Fingal County Council’s Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Plan, which was recently updated and extended out to 2030.  It sets out an ambitious new vision to transform and improve Balbriggan by revitalizing and creating a unique and sustainable public open space. 

AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive at Fingal County Council said: ‘‘The Harry Reynolds Road Pedestrian & Cycle Route connects six schools along the 3km route, as well as offering a safe cycling and walking route to shops, childcare facilities and community amenities including Millpond Park, Castlelands Community Centre, and Flemington Community Centre. The route will make travelling by Active Travel in Balbriggan safer and more convenient, particularly for children, older people, and less experienced cyclists. It is another substantial infrastructure investment in Balbriggan that will have long-term benefits for the community’’. 

The newly completed Harry Reynolds Road Pedestrian & Cycle Route delivers many positive benefits including less traffic congestion, reduced impact on the environment and the promotion of healthier communities. Extensive landscaping was undertaken as part of the project, featuring the planting of trees and hedgerows. This new greenery not only enhances the aesthetic value of the route but also plays a key role in improving air quality and biodiversity. The route creates welcoming opportunities for residents to connect with each other and take pride in their community.