Greenway extension set to transform west Mayo town

Plans to extend the Great Western Greenway directly through Newport town have taken a major step forward after councillors formally agreed the Part 8 planning process for the project.

The proposed 1.1km route will create a 3–4 metre-wide segregated greenway through the heart of the town, linking up with the existing Great Western Greenway.

The development will include a realignment of the N59 along Medlicott Street, a new four-metre-wide ramp leading up to the railway viaduct, and a crossing of the Newport River via the viaduct itself.

From there, the route will continue across Castlebar Street, through the car park beside the old railway station, past the oratory and iron bridge, before connecting with the Mulranny Road via a pedestrian crossing.

A total of 13 public submissions were received during consultation, with councillors welcoming the level of community engagement.

Councillor Peter Flynn said the project represents a major boost for Newport.

“I want to thank everyone who made submissions. There are always hurlers on the ditch talking about it in the pubs, but many submissions raised positive and legitimate concerns and that is exactly what this process should be about. This is another huge step for Newport,” he said.

Councillor Flynn added that the scheme will dovetail with other ongoing projects.

“With the new enterprise hub coming on Main Street next year, Newport is going to be transformed. It’s a very special town, not just in Mayo but in the country, and keeping the greenway linked so closely to the town centre is really welcomed,” he remarked.

Senior engineer Tommie Sheridan of the National Roads Design Office set out the timeframe, with tenders due to go out on October 23.

The detailed design phase is expected to take 12 months, with construction beginning in February 2027 and lasting a further year. The completion date is currently scheduled for February 2028.

“We are looking at completion in early 2028. It is a long process, particularly with the servicing required on the viaduct, but we hope to expedite it wherever we can,” said Mr. Sheridan, noting that the Medlicott Street element will be department-funded.

While councillors welcomed the approval of the Part 8 process, they also expressed surprise and disappointment at the length of the timeframe.

Councillor Flynn admitted he was taken aback by the projected 2028 completion date but reiterated his belief that the project will be transformative for the town and wider region.

“This will make Newport one of the stand-out destinations in the west,” he said.

(Funded under the Local Democracy Scheme).