'Gateway to the west' project back on track

A Mayo TD has expressed his satisfaction that a tender process is now underway for the appointment of a contractor to progress the construction of the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramrogue project.

Deputy Dara Calleary elaborated: “Construction on the 33km road between the Ballaghaderreen Bypass and Scramrogue, bypassing Frenchpark, Tulsk and Strokestown was suspended on March 11 when the apppointed contractor Roadbridge went into receivership.

"I am now informed that Roscommon County Council is engaged in the process of procuring a new contractor with the tender process underway.

"I am also informed that expressions of interest have been received and that it is envisaged that the contract will be awarded in the first quarter of 2023 with completed of the project to take three years.

“It has also been confirmed that a pavement improvement scheme will be progressed on the existing N5 between Moneylea and Carrowntossan this year with the work due to commence in July.

"A feasibilty study and options report has also been received for a safety scheme at the junction of the N5 and R361 in Frenchpark.

“People travelling to and from Mayo to Dublin will be well aware of the need for the upgrading of the N5 – the collapse of Roadbridge was a huge blow in terms of the delivery of this essential project but thankfully there is some light now with this news that a tender process is under way.

"I want to acknowledge the efforts of Roscommon County Council and my Oireachtas colleague Senator Eugene Murphy and look forward to the project recommencing in early 2023,” added Calleary.

The project is widely referred to a the 'Gateway to the west'.