The construction sector is awaiting news of a bid to secure almost €20m in funding under the Government's 'Smarter Travel' initiative to redevelop travel facilities in and around Galway City.

The plan includes the construction of a new coastal 'green lane' from Renmore to Silver Strand for pedestrians and cyclists - giving a fillip to the beleaguered builders at the same time.

The Smarter Travel initiative is designed to provide funding that can be used for the implementation of policies to increase the use of walking, cycling and use of rail and buses for commuting to and travelling around the city.

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A critical part of the submission is a major overhaul of the public transport network with Quality Bus Corridors (QBCs) crossing the city on a direct east-west axis, aimed at massively increasing bus usage in the city.

A Council bid is likely to be given a decision within the next three weeks to see if it has been successful or not.

The funds are aimed at introducing sustainable transport methods throughout the city and its suburbs .

The Council is still hopeful that it will be granted the €19.8m funding from an overall pot of €50m.

The funds will go towards the Action Plan for the Galway Metropolitan Smarter Travel Area - which includes the city, Oranmore, Barna and Claregalway - which has been costed at just under €26.5m.

While €19.8m has been sought from the Department of Transport, a further investment worth €6.6m has been proposed jointly by the City and County Councils.

(BMcC/GK)