A €50m national competition aimed at funding and delivering innovative examples of sustainable travel in urban and rural areas across Ireland has been launched.

Transport Minister Noel Dempsey said the purpose of the competition is to help people to 'leave their cars at home', and instead opt to walk, cycle or use other more sustainable forms of transport.

The Department of Transport run competition is open to local authorities to submit proposals for developing sustainable travel systems in rural areas or towns.

The Minister has committed €50m over five years from 2010-2015 to fund the successful projects that are chosen through this competition.

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He said: "I want this competition to help us deliver more people focused travel and transport systems nationwide.

"Indeed there are people who might want to walk or cycle for part of their journeys in combination either with public transport or the car.

"I think it's time that we concentrated on those people and helped them to travel differently. That's what this competition is all about."

Successful bids from local authorities will promote sustainable transport modes and better managed traffic in towns, villages or cities nationwide.

A Smarter Travel Area funded under this competition could therefore include improved cycling routes; better walking facilities; restricted car access to certain locations; or tailored public transport services, such as demand responsive services.

Initial bids should be submitted to the Department of Transport by October 30, 2009.

Those shortlisted will be invited to submit full proposals and business cases by end March 2010. The winners will be announced in May 2010 with funding beginning in June 2010.

(PR/BMcc)