Phase 3 of the Royal Canal Greenway in Dublin has been completed and officially opened, delivering 2.1km of new walking and cycling facilities between Newcomen Bridge, North Strand and Cross Guns Bridge, Phibsborough.

The works also mean there is now a continuous 3.2km active travel route linking Phibsborough with the River Liffey.

The project involved a complex package of civil engineering and public infrastructure works. These included the construction of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge, high-quality accessible pathways, a community plaza and wider public realm upgrades. Public lighting and CCTV infrastructure were replaced along the route, and in partnership with ESB Networks, ducting has been laid to facilitate future electricity network improvements.

Delivered by Dublin City Council in collaboration with Waterways Ireland, CIÉ and Irish Rail, this scheme forms part of the 314km Dublin City Council Active Travel Network. The programme is designed to expand sustainable transport options across the city through enhanced walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure.

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Speaking about the Royal Canal Greenway Phase 3, Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, said: "This is a fantastic scheme for the local community and for the North Inner City, as well as for Dublin at large. The Royal Canal Greenway Phase 3 provides a beautiful public amenity in an important, historic part of the city."

He added: "As this is the third phase of the Royal Canal Greenway that has been delivered by Dublin City Council, its launch showcases our commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure in the city. I look forward to the delivery of the fourth and final phase, which will extend the route to Ashtown."

Meanwhile, Darragh O'Brien T.D., Minister for Transport, commented: "This scheme, which forms part of the National Cycle Network, exemplifies what can be done when we focus on delivering best-in-class infrastructure to attract and enable more people to walk, wheel or cycle as an alternative to private car use. It also demonstrates the importance of building linkages and a connected network. Because this phase of the Royal Canal links to previous phases, a person can now walk, wheel or cycle safely and with ease from Spencer Dock to Phibsborough. This scheme also connects to other Dublin City Council active travel schemes, including the Clontarf to City Centre scheme, enabling ease of active travel across the city."

The long-term aim for the scheme is that the Dublin parts of the greenway will link up to the 130km Royal Canal Greenway, which is Ireland's longest greenway and runs from Maynooth to Cloondara. The Maynooth to Cloondara stretch of the Royal Canal Greenway was launched in 2021 and has been very popular, resulting in significant societal benefits (including economic benefits) and winning international awards. Once complete, there will be a world-class Greenway running along the 200-year-old, 146-kilometre Royal Canal, connecting the River Liffey to the River Shannon.

Photo credit: Dublin City Council on X.