Primary and secondary schools in Galway are calling for enhanced cycling infrastructure in and around the city.

In a letter sent to members of Galway City Council, the principals of 28 schools say existing routes are dangerous and that immediate action is needed to remedy this.

The schools say they have been trying to encourage people to “cycle or walk where possible”, in line with public health advice.

But they contend that it is unsafe for children, parents or teachers to use bikes due to a lack of proper cycling infrastructure around schools.

The principals say immediate action is necessary and they have asked for a comprehensive plan to address their concerns.

The City Council was recently awarded €11.9 million under the National Transport Authority’s Active Sustainable Transport scheme.

Some of this funding has been earmarked for better routes around schools.