Calls grow to open ‘ready-to-use’ Navan riverside walkway
Calls have been made to open a “ready to use” riverside walkway and cycle route in Navan without further delay.
The route, which links the Slane Road to the bottom of Flower Hill, forms part of the town’s wider active travel scheme but has yet to be fully opened.
Aontú councillor Emer Tóibín said the delay is preventing the public from accessing what she described as one of Navan’s most attractive walking and cycling routes.
“This scenic riverside route, located along the north bank of the River Boyne and accessible from the Slane Road, runs from Ruxton Oaks down towards St Gabriel’s at Flower Hill,” she said.
“It offers stunning views along the Boyne as far as its confluence with the River Blackwater, opening out onto one of the most beautiful natural features in Navan.
“It is, without doubt, one of the town’s finest developed active travel routes. But it still isn’t fully open and this is such a pity because it has real, practical benefits for the wider area.
“It would provide a safe, off-road active travel link into Navan town centre in under 10 minutes. It would help reduce pressure on the heavily congested Blackcastle Demesne exit onto the Slane Road and unlock a public asset that is already built, finished, and ready to use.
“At a time when people are being encouraged to walk, cycle and reduce traffic, it makes no sense to leave a great piece of infrastructure sitting partially closed, especially now as the weather improves and brighter evenings arrive.”
Cllr Tóibín said she had sent several emails to the council since January seeking a timeline.
“I hope whatever the reasons holding up the full opening of this path can be resolved as soon as possible. It is important to get timely answers and access.”
Meanwhile, Meath County Council has been contacted for comment.