New cycling network to connect 200 cities, towns and villages across Ireland

Connor Synott, Transport Minister Eamon Ryan and Tola Gahan cycle along a section of the Grand Canal Greenway between Sallins and Aylmer Bridge, CO Kildare, at the launch of Ireland's first National Cycle Network (NCN). Picture: Niall Carson/PA

The Government has launched a new plan which will see 3,500km of cycle facilities delivered by 2040.

When completed, the National Cycling Network (NCN) will connect more than 200 cities, towns and villages of over 5,000 population around the island — meaning more than 2.8 million people will benefit.