TD Calls For The Government To Get A Move On With South-Wicklow Greenway

Fine Gael TD Brian Brennan has urged the government to fast-track the long-delayed Arklow to Shillelagh Greenway, calling it “critical” for tourism and transformative for South Wicklow communities.

A local TD has urged the government to maintain a push towards completion of the Arklow to Shillelagh Greenway.

Fine Gael TD Brian Brennan said the project is “critical” for tourism in South Wicklow and claims it would be  “transformative” for Arklow, Woodenbridge, Aughrim, Tinahely, and Shillelagh.

He noted the project has been in planning since 2017 and urged the Government to ensure it finally comes to fruition.

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Brennan drew on his own experience running a hotel in Arklow for more than 20 years, highlighting the importance of tourism for local communities.

“I know at first hand what South Wicklow needs, and I cannot emphasise enough the importance of this greenway project,” he said.

“Our support for this is simply critical. For decades, there has been a genuine feeling in South Wicklow that they have been ignored in terms of investment in tourism projects,” Brennan added.

He stressed the economic benefits the greenway would bring, saying: “When you have guests staying in towns and villages it really ticks so many boxes – employment, support for local suppliers, shops, pubs, cafes, and restaurants.”

While acknowledging some progress in recent months, Brennan emphasised the project’s slow pace. “The first meeting was in 2017 – nine years ago in Lawless Hotel in Aughrim. Now nine years later, we are still waiting for a sod to be turned,” he said.

Brennan also highlighted recent milestones, noting that a preferred route has been identified and an independent consultant is engaging with landowners. “We must stay positive and look forward, but this momentum must be maintained, and I ask for your Department to give it the support it truly deserves,” he said.

Minister of State Jerry Buttimer confirmed the scheme is advancing. Phase 3 of the project, including technical, environmental, and social evaluations, is expected to take up to 24 months. He also highlighted government support for greenways, including €59 million nationally for the Greenways and Active Travel on National Roads Programme and €300,000 specifically for the Arklow to Shillelagh route in 2026.

Brennan concluded by painting an idealistic picture of the greenway’s transformative potential:

“I often drive this very route and try to envisage what it will be like when we achieve this greenway. Imagine cafés on the quays in Arklow, Woodenbridge alive with tourists, Lawless Hotel reopening in Aughrim, bike shops in Tinahely, or maybe more pods in Shillelagh. It is simply going to open up new tourism in South County Wicklow.”

Fine Gael, Wicklow Wexford T.D. Brian Brennan