Introduction

Roscommon County Council, in partnership with Westmeath County Council is currently in the early stages of developing a greenway linking Athlone, Ballyleague / Lanesborough and Roscommon Town. This project is funded through Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). RPS have been appointed by Roscommon County Council to provide multi-disciplinary consultancy services for the Lough Ree Greenway.

We are currently in Phase 2 of the development (Options Selection).

Key Information

In Phase 1 (Concept and Feasibility), the first public consultation for the Lough Ree Greenway (Athlone to Ballyleague/Lanesborough) was held in March 2023 and displayed the Study Area for the project. Feedback from the first public consultation helped inform the identification of areas of interest and constraints, which in turn informed the development of route corridor options for the scheme.

The project is now in Phase 2 Options Selection which involves the development and assessment of the route corridor options to identify a preferred route and incorporates Roscommon town in addition to Athlone and Ballyleague/Lanesborough.

Public Consultation No. 2 on the route corridor options will take place between 11th March and April 11th 2025 at 4pm. We encourage that you regularly check the website for updates in the intervening period. Stakeholder participation and feedback is key to the success of the project.

Project Benefits

It is envisaged that the Lough Ree Greenway will facilitate sustainable economic development within Athlone, Ballyleague/Lanesborough, Roscommon Town and the surrounding communities through improved connectivity and increased tourism potential. Additionally, it will support a modal shift from cars to active travel while promoting sustainable transportation; environmental appreciation and preservation; and economic growth and revitalisation. The Lough Ree Greenway will integrate with other networks such as the National Cycle Network, the Old Rail Trail Greenway (connecting Athlone to Mullingar) and the Royal Canal Greenway which runs from Longford to Maynooth.

Increased Tourism

Increase in Active Travel

Reduced Carbon Emissions

Sustainable Economic Growth

Project Objectives

The key objectives of this project are to provide a greenway link which is sustainable, accessible, safe, and attractive for locals and visitors. In achieving these objectives, the project will facilitate:

Transport User and Economic Benefits Support connectivity and economic growth in the local and regional area.
Social Enhance social inclusion and promote healthier communities through linking the local communities of Athlone, Ballyleague / Lanesborough and Roscommon town.
Safety Provide safe and accessible infrastructure, which improves the safety and security of walkers, cyclists and other greenway users.
Accessibility Promote modal shift and multi-modal connectivity and accessibility to existing amenities, services and facilities.
Land Use Support and facilitate the implementation of national, regional and local sustainable transport policies.
Climate Change Contribute to the offsetting/ reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and be robust and resilient to negative climate change effects.
Environment Increase public appreciation of the natural environment and local heritage, while protecting and enhancing natural assets and biodiversity.
Best Practice Follow the Code of Best Practice for National and Regional Greenways to maximise the use of State-owned lands and minimise potential impacts on privately-owned lands.