Galway Advertiser 2010/GA_2010_03_18/GA_1803_E1_008.pdf 

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8 NEWS

www.advertiser.ie

March 18 2010

Loughrea bids for 5m in sustainable travel funding
Loughrea has been shortlisted for a new sustainable travel initiative which will see 5 million awarded to one town for the development of sustainable transport infrastructure. Loughrea is among 11 towns shortlisted for funding under the Smarter Travel Areas initiative, a programme developed by the Department for Transport as part of its drive for sustainable travel and transport across the country. In line with the SmarterTravel Policy, launched in April 2009, the competition seeks proposals that outline various actions to help achieve this vision. This includes implementing measures aimed at reducing the distances travelled by car, increasing accessibility of public transport, and promoting more active and environmentally friendly modes of transportation such as walking and cycling. The Galway County Council is bidding for 5 million under the initiative to fund new infrastructure such as cycle lanes and park and ride schemes. Alongside this a series of community and workplace initiatives will be developed to support and subsidise healthier and more eco-friendly travel. "This is a great opportunity for Loughrea," said Michael Owens, senior executive officer with the Galway County Council, who is leading the town's bid. "If we are successful in the next stage of the process, securing funding, we will be able to improve current accessibility to and throughout the town for schools, residents, commuters, and tourists. By adopting a more sustainable approach to travel we aim to reduce congestion and in turn improve the quality of our public spaces." The Galway Metropolitan Area, encompassing Galway city, Oranmore, Claregalway, and Barna, is also vying for funding under the initiative. The Galway County Council will hold a series of consultation events on the initiative in the coming weeks. Representatives from the council will be visiting Loughrea primary and secondary schools on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week to engage with young people and hear their views on the future travel options for the town. Two public consultation events will take place on Wednesday and Thursday evening at the county council offices in Barrack Street from 6pm to 8pm. Light refreshments will be served. Further information is also available from the Smarter Travel Office on (091) 509309, email smartertravel@galwaycoco.ie

At the Brown Thomas Galway Spring Summer 2010 Collection fashion show was Mercy Kudakwashe. Photo: Sean Lydon