Mayo minister reaffirms focus on driving Mayo airport SDZ and rail ambitions

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Alan Dillon, has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Ireland West Airport Knock (IWAK), describing it as a “game-changer” for Mayo and the wider northern and western Region.

Since taking office, Minister Alan Dillon has made the SDZ a personal priority, recognising its potential to attract investment, create jobs, and transform the region’s economic landscape.

“I am personally committed to delivering on the SDZ ambition,” Minister Dillon said during a recent visit to the airport.

“This project has the potential to significantly enhance the enterprise ecosystem in the west.

"I am working tirelessly with Enterprise Ireland, the board at Ireland West Airport Knock and my Department to support future investment and I am hopeful that a breakthrough will happen in the not-too-distant future.”

The SDZ Planning Scheme, prepared by Mayo County Council, is live and sets out a clear roadmap for development.

Four projects have already received planning permission, signalling strong momentum. Government support includes funding for a dedicated project manager to oversee the SDZ roadmap, due for completion in August 2026.

This roadmap will outline strategies to maximize the SDZ’s potential and identify financial and infrastructural supports.

Minister Dillon’s efforts align with Project Ireland 2040 and the Programme for Government’s commitment to balanced regional development.

He confirmed that Mayo County Council has sought inclusion of the SDZ in the revised National Development Plan (NDP), a move that would send a powerful signal of Government’s commitment to the West.

During his recent visit, Minister Dillon met with senior airport management and leading businesses already investing in the SDZ.

“The EirTrade Aviation and Kenaidan Contracting projects show the confidence businesses have in the SDZ,” Minister Dillon said.

“They will create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen the region’s position as a centre for aviation and logistics.”

The minister acknowledges that significant infrastructure upgrades, particularly water and wastewater, are essential to unlock the SDZ’s full potential.

Uisce Éireann has committed to working with Mayo County Council to ensure adequate servicing for future growth.

“There are also clear advantages to extending the rail link to serve the airport and SDZ. While the roadmap will guide sequencing, I will continue to champion this vision. Connectivity is key to unlocking the West’s economic potential.”

For Minister Dillon, this is more than a policy initiative, it’s a mission. Delivering on the SDZ and future rail ambitions would not only transform Mayo and the airport but also cement his reputation as the Minister who made regional development happen.

“The SDZ is a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Dillon concluded.

“I will not stop until we see shovels in the ground and businesses investing in the west.

"The Ireland West Airport Knock SDZ isn’t just about bricks and mortar, it’s about jobs, investment and a future where the west stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Ireland’s most dynamic regions. I’m determined to make that future a reality.”