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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.

ROYAL CANAL GREENWAY

Surfacing of the “Royal Canal Greenway” between Maynooth and Richmond Harbour / Longford Town has been completed. In advance of a 2020 launch, further works such as the installation of trail signage, ancillary infrastructure, etc. are ongoing, to deliver a quality visitor experience. These developments will provide a 130km long-distance trail, suitable for both walkers and cyclists

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

LOCATION	STATUS
Spencer Dock to Sheriff Street	Completed
Sheriff Street to Newcomen Bridge	Under Construction*
Newcomen Bridge to Phibsborough Road	Planning Approved – construction date tbc
Phibsborough Road to 10th Lock	Planning Approved - construction date tbc
10th Lock to 12th Lock	Completed
12th Lock to Confey	Planned - at Design Stage
Confey (Cope Slipway) to Maynooth Slipway	Planned - at Design Stage

*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.