Overwhelming support for proposed new NCT centre in north Mayo
MOMENTUM is building across Erris for the establishment of a National Car Test (NCT) centre in Belmullet, following a public call by local businessman Michael Conroy and strong backing from the Erris Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Conroy, owner of Michael Conroy Motors, recently published an open letter to Mayo’s five TDs and local representatives asking that serious consideration be given to locating a new NCT facility within the Erris region. He also confirmed that a formal enquiry has already been sent to the NCT organisation about the feasibility of such a centre being approved for Belmullet.
Erris is one of the largest and most geographically isolated regions in the country, stretching from Eachléim to Ballycroy and encompassing a population estimated between 15,000 and 20,000 people. Despite having over 15 registered garages in the wider area - many involved in vehicle repair, sales and servicing - motorists currently face long and costly journeys to access the nearest NCT centres in Ballina or Westport.
“These return journeys can easily exceed 150 kilometres and take up three hours, depending on road conditions,” Mr. Conroy explained. “That’s a significant time and cost burden for residents and businesses alike. With test appointments at both existing centres often booked out for months, a new NCT facility in Belmullet would help ease congestion, reduce travel times, and create local employment.”
His call has struck a strong chord with the local community. In response, the Erris Chamber of Commerce launched a rapid online poll to gauge public sentiment, and the results were emphatic - over 350 people voted in favour, with not a single vote opposed.
Erris Chamber president Brian Bakeberg noted that the response highlights both the unity and determination within the community to improve essential infrastructure in rural Mayo.
He said: “This isn’t just about convenience It’s about fairness, accessibility, and keeping services within reach of the community and people who live and work here. The population of Erris deserves the same level of practical infrastructure as any other part of the county.”
The Chamber confirmed it will fully support the proposal through every available channel, including backing an application to the LEADER Fund. This funding route could play a central role in helping secure the site, planning, and start-up requirements needed to bring the NCT centre to life.
Local representatives are now being urged to lend their voices to the campaign. The Chamber has called for unified political and community support to ensure the project gains the attention it deserves from national decision-makers.
“This project would benefit households, small businesses, mechanics, farmers, and transport providers right across the region,” the Chamber statement continued. “It would also reduce unnecessary emissions from long-distance travel and contribute to the broader sustainability goals for rural Ireland.”
Mr. Conroy said he intends to keep the community informed as discussions progress and is hopeful that the strength of local backing will demonstrate the clear need for such a vital facility. “We are ready to work with the authorities to identify a suitable site,” he said. “Erris is ready - and the community is behind this 100%.”
If realised, the proposed NCT centre would mark one of the most significant service improvements in recent years for Belmullet and the wider Erris Peninsula, further strengthening the area’s economic resilience and quality of life.