4km cyclepath to link Bellarena and Benone

Mr Kennedy said the scheme will be prioritised in future work programmes but due to the potentially high cost of the project it will have to be brought forward incrementally.

The Minister made the revelation in response to a query from East Londonderry MLA Cathal Ó hOisín.

Mr Kennedy said a 2.2kilometre footpath already extends from Bellarena Presbyterian Church and Magilligan Field Centre southwards to the Bellarena Railway Halt.

“This continuous footway links the main housing developments of Bellarena and Oughtymoyle Avenue, and also a number of individual properties along the Seacoast Road, to Bellarena Railway Halt,” he explained.

But further plans are afoot to provide a link from the rail halt all the way to Benone beach.

“In addition, a scheme proposal is under development to provide a footway/cycleway on Seacoast Road, from Bellarena Presbyterian Church northwards towards Benone Tourist Complex, an approximate distance of 4km.

“This footway/cycleway will provide a continuous link between Benone Tourist Complex and Bellarena Railway Halt,” Mr Kennedy confirmed.

He warned, however, that given financial constraints the project will be delivered over time.

“However, due to the length and potentially high cost of this proposal, it is likely the scheme will be delivered in stages.

“The footway/cycleway is being developed in accordance with current policies and procedures, and will be prioritised within future works programmes as each stage gains approval through the development process,” he explained.