A small grants initiative to develop greenway projects in Northern Ireland has been launched.

The scheme is aimed at providing support for councils to work up projects that will be able to deliver a step change in greenway provision.

Transport Minister Michelle McIlveen said: "As a user of the Comber Greenway I recognise the value of greenways. They are an excellent way to enable people to incorporate activity into their everyday routine - whether as a means of travelling or for recreation and leisure. These off-road traffic-free routes provide a safe environment to give people the freedom and confidence to use the bicycle for everyday journeys.

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"A number of councils have already undertaken work on greenways in their areas and I believe there is great potential to do much more. Providing support to councils in the development of greenways is one of the objectives set out in the Bicycle Strategy and this small grants programme is aimed at doing just that."

The small grants programme will be a three stage competition with successful projects eventually receiving a grant of up to £25,000 grant to develop detailed designs and a fully worked up project bid for assessment.

(CD/LM)