Minister Sean Canney officially opens new Active Travel scheme in Granard
Improved links, safer routes and a new public car park delivered through €1m investment
Press Release: Tuesday, 16 June 2026
Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Sean Canney T.D., has officially opened the Market Street to Barrack Lane and R194 (Longford Road) Active Travel Scheme in Granard, marking the completion of a major investment in walking, cycling and public realm infrastructure in the town.
The scheme, delivered by Longford County Council, represents a combined investment of approximately €1 million and has been funded through the National Transport Authority’s Active Travel Programme, with additional co‑funding for the Barrack Lane car park provided by Longford County Council and anti‑dumping initiative grants. Minister of State Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, with responsibility for the Office of Public Works was also in attendance.
The project has been delivered in three connected elements. The first provides a new permeability route for pedestrians and cyclists between Market Street and Barrack Lane, including a new 150‑metre link road, widened footpaths, raised crossings, public lighting and drainage works. This route significantly shortens journey times and improves safety, particularly for students attending Ardscoil Phadraig, Cnoc Mhuire Secondary School and Sacred Heart National School.
The second element extends the active travel network along the R194 Longford Road, delivering 460 metres of upgraded infrastructure with widened footpaths, traffic calming, junction improvements and a new zebra crossing linking directly to Ardscoil Phadraig.
The third element is the new Barrack Lane public car park, which provides 31 off‑street parking spaces, including five electric vehicle charging bays, four accessible spaces, a covered bicycle shelter and a fully accessible bring centre in County Longford.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Sean Canney said the scheme demonstrated how targeted investment can improve safety, connectivity and quality of life in towns like Granard, while supporting national climate and transport objectives.
“This project in Granard is a strong example of what can be achieved through clear planning and a commitment to delivery. The works along Barrack Lane will provide safer, more direct routes for people walking and cycling, linking homes, schools and the town centre.
The inclusion of new shared paths, safer crossings and improved junctions will make a real difference to daily journeys, particularly for students and families. It will help encourage more people to choose active travel for short trips.
This scheme marks an important step in building a wider network for Granard. Over time, that network will support a healthier, more liveable town and reduce reliance on the car. I commend Longford County Council for their leadership and for progressing a project that will benefit the community for years to come.”
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “These works have transformed how people move around Granard. Safer crossings, better footpaths and new parking facilities all contribute to a more accessible and welcoming town centre for residents, businesses and visitors.”
Chief Executive of Longford County Council Paddy Mahon said, “This scheme is about making everyday journeys safer and more practical for people of all ages. It improves access to schools, reduces pressure on Main Street, and creates new opportunities for future development in Granard. It is a strong example of what sustained investment in active travel can achieve in a rural town.”
The scheme was designed by CST Group Consulting Engineers and constructed by Lakeland Civil Engineering Ltd. and KT Civils, with works taking place between November 2024 and November 2025.
