Mayo road realignment project expected to proceed to planning stage soon

The redevelopment of the R315 between Crossmolina and Lahardane could go to planning in mid-2023.

Mayo TD Alan Dillon said following consultation with the Roads Design Office at Mayo County Council in relation to the stretch of road at Castlehill on the R315 between Crossmolina and Lahardane, it has emerged that a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) is required before the development can proceed.

An update on the project, received from Paul Dolan, head of roads at Mayo County Council, outlined that the council are now proceeding with the procurement of a consultant for the preparation of the NIS, which will be followed by a submission to An Bord Pleanala in mid-2023.

“The follow-on programme will be determined by the Board Pleanala decision,” he said.

Deputy Dillon said further progress needs to be made on this project.

"The R315 serves as a busy road for local traffic including school buses and is also used as a main artery by people travelling from Crossmolina, Kilfian and Ballycastle to Castlebar.

"I will continue to engage with Mr. Dolan and acknowledge his teams efforts in the Roads Design Office in submitting the preliminary appraisal form to the Department of Transport.

“Assuming the local authority is successful with the initial design, environmental impact studies and planning, this road project would then proceed with detailed design, land acquisition and tender documents as early as possible in 2023.

‘I intend to monitor progress closely over the coming months to ensure this specific improvement project is delivered for the local communities and R315 commuters.”