Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has welcomed confirmation from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) that a Part VIII planning application for the southern section of the proposed Limerick to Scarriff Greenway is expected to be lodged in the final quarter of 2026.
The update came in response to a parliamentary question submitted by Deputy Cooney.
TII confirmed that the section between Blackbridge and Errina Bridge is expected to advance to the planning stage later next year, with the overall project nearing completion of Phase 2 of the development process.
“This is a significant milestone for the project and a very positive development for communities along the route,” Deputy Cooney said.
“The Limerick to Scarriff Greenway has enormous potential from both a tourism and local amenity perspective and it is encouraging to see the project moving towards the planning stage.”
TII also confirmed that Waterways Ireland and Clare County Council are examining how the overall scheme will be delivered, including the possibility of progressing it in phases.
Meanwhile, Deputy Cooney welcomed further progress on the West Clare Greenway, with the Kilrush to Kilkee section now the most advanced part of the overall project.
According to TII, engagement with landowners and affected households is continuing and voluntary land acquisition negotiations are well underway. Planning documentation is expected to be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála shortly.
“TII has confirmed that the Kilrush to Kilkee section is progressing well and that is welcome news for local communities and businesses,” Deputy Cooney said.
The Ennis to Ennistymon section remains at route selection stage, with a preferred corridor expected to be published for public consultation in the final quarter of 2026.
TII has also indicated that the Option Selection Report for the Ennistymon to Miltown Malbay section is expected during the third quarter of next year.
Deputy Cooney said the projects have the potential to deliver substantial economic and tourism benefits across the county.
“Greenways are delivering real benefits wherever they are developed. They support local economies, attract visitors, improve connectivity and enhance quality of life,” he said.
While expressing disappointment that the Miltown Malbay to Moyasta section did not receive a funding allocation in 2026, Deputy Cooney said he would continue to press for investment to ensure the entire West Clare Greenway can be delivered.
“I will continue working to ensure that funding is secured so that all sections of the West Clare Greenway can progress. These projects have the potential to transform tourism and provide first-class recreational infrastructure for communities throughout Clare,” he said.