The further progression of Westport towards becoming a Smarter Travel town, a competition which is being run by the Department of Transport to develop alternative travel systems, where if successful Westport would benefit from a large injection of funds, is something which “everyone in the town needs to come together to do absolutely everything to obtain” according to the Cathaoirleach of the town.
During last Thursday night’s Westport Town Council meeting, Padraig Philbin from Mayo County Council informed councillors that the next stage of bids will take place in April. So far, Westport has been shortlisted from 39 towns to 11 and the winners will be selected in May.
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Myles Staunton, said if Westport is successful this will “affect Westport for generations to come”. Cllr Michael McLaughlin said that this is the most “forward thinking project” that the town council has ever been involved in “as it will have huge implications for business and tourism”.
The council was also informed that three bikes have been bought for staff and councillors to use as part of the new scheme and aptly enough the theme of this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade will be Smarter Travel.
