A major roadblock, which had threatened to delay and complicate the planned €160 million N5 Turlough to Westport project, has been removed.
Proceedings between a local landowner and Mayo County Council - in relation to the land acquisition part of the project - were struck out, with no order made, in the High Court on Wednesday.
Mayo County Council can now proceed, with the National Roads Authority, to acquire the necessary land and keep the project motoring forward.
Construction of the 23 kilometres of new dual carriageway looks set to begin in 2016, according to An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, who warmly welcomed the latest development on the project.
“It will be good for business, for families, and for tourism, opening up access to various amenities and attractions including the Wild Atlantic Way and the Great Western Greenway,” said Mr Kenny.
Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Damien Ryan, described the dual carriageway as a “much sought after project in this county for some time now”.
“I am delighted that the project can progress to the land acquisition stage, which will be a major step in bringing it to fruition. It will enhance accessibility to the county and will be a major boost for the county as a whole,” he said.
Also welcoming the news, Mayo County Council chief executive, Peter Hynes, said the project would not only further enhance the attractiveness of Mayo for investment and for tourism but would generally enhance confidence in the county as well.
“I want to thank our own team, the National Roads Authority, the Department, and all who have played a part in bringing this project to this stage,” added Mr Hynes. “I would also like to express our appreciation to all landowners with whom the council has had dealings, and we look forward to their continued co-operation and goodwill in the land acquisition process and construction phase. We will work very closely with the NRA to bring this key peice of infrastrucure to completion.”
