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Development of the Royal Canal Towpath

Works are ongoing to develop the longest off road Greenway in Ireland, along the Royal Canal. Greenways are recreational, off-road routes for walkers, cyclists and other non-motorised transport. During the current development phase, you may experience some disruption to your walking or cycling journey. Below is a summary of the works ongoing and the restrictions to be aware of.

Surfacing of the “Royal Canal Greenway” between Maynooth and Richmond Harbour / Longford Town is nearing completion. Further works are required in terms of signage and services before the Greenway is visitor ready. These developments will provide a 130km long-distance trail, suitable for both walkers and cyclists. We expect that the Royal Canal Greenway will be open for business during 2020.
While the ambition is to deliver a Royal Canal Greenway that commences at Spencer Dock Dublin, it is not currently possible to cycle along all of the route from Dublin city to Maynooth, due to works ongoing or in planning. This section of the Royal Canal Greenway has a longer timescale to completion.

CURRENT DEVELOPMENT WORKS ON THE ROYAL CANAL TOWPATH

If you are a WALKER, please be aware of the following works ongoing which may impact on your journey:

There is currently no access from Sherriff Street to Newcomen Bridge due to works ongoing. Walkers should start their Royal Canal walking journey in Dublin after Newcomen Bridge on the south side bank (53°21'23.4"N 6°14'40.1"W). Users should then follow the Royal Canal Way (Walking Route) as normal.

If you are a CYCLIST intending to follow the Maynooth to Richmond Harbour / Longford Town Greenway route, please be aware of the following works ongoing which may impact on your journey:

From Ferns Lock for 300m, works are ongoing on the North bank side of the canal to create a surface suitable for cycling. This section of the Greenway is due to be completed towards the end of 2019. The Royal Canal Way (Walking Route) on the South bank side is unaffected and can be used as a detour for walkers and cyclists.
There are planned works due to take place to upgrade the towpath between lock 18 and lock 45, works are expected to be finalised towards the end of quarter one in 2020. For further details on current works along the Royal Canal please click here.