Editorial: Funding should make active travel safer in Kilkenny

Word of a €3 million investment from the NTA to transform the experience of walking, wheeling or cycling around Kilkenny is welcome indeed.

The funding should make our county a safer and more appealing option for more people to get out and about and reduce their reliance on private vehicles.

The money allocated to ‘rapid build’ projects around Kilkenny, such as the €400,000 allocated to making Freshford Road and Granges Road safer, and the funding for a new bridge connecting Cootes Lane to the ring road will also make a big difference.

Many would-be cyclists are afraid to travel in areas where narrow streets and busy vehicular traffic can be intimidating. This funding will be a step in the right direction.

It is also great to see the upgrading of a number of bus shelters around the city, making them more user-friendly, accessible — and offering some protection from the elements.

Recent public transport figures nationally show a 24% increase in passenger numbers in 2023 compared with 2022 and a 5% increase above the previous record year in 2019. That’s positive news, and Kilkenny City bus service has been a great addition.

STEVIE ABÚ
Well done to local lad Stevie Mulrooney from the Kennyswell road, who did his county and country proud on Sunday.

The eight year old showed not a trace of nerves as he stood in front of a full Aviva stadium and belted out Ireland’s Call before the Six Nations match against Italy. He hit every note and gave it gusto, adding to the occasion.

His performance garnered a huge round of applause from those present, and won plaudits from those watching at home, and indeed, right around the world. He has got a very bright future ahead of him. Stevie will also be taking part in this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade singing Ireland’s Call.

We wish him and grand marshal Richie Power all the best on the big day.