Preferred corridor for 'transformative' N26 route in Mayo is revealed
A Mayo Oireachtas member has welcomed the release of the preferred route corridor for the N26 and has encouraged those with feedback to make their submissions before the closing date of Friday, September 4.
Senator Mark Duffy stated: “What is being proposed is an online and offline upgrade of the road between Mount Falcon and Foxford.
"It will involve the construction of three roundabouts along the route which will mean staggered local access delivering much safer egress and ingress for householders living along the route who currently face dangerous conditions entering and exiting their properties.
“This current proposal includes a 2+1 carriageway and all that goes with it meaning there would be an overtaking lane on one side of the carriageway which will alternate half-way along the route.
"This will enable safer overtaking along the route and help improve traffic flows.
"It is proposed that the speed limit will be 100km/h and there will be a central reservation barrier between the right and left lanes which will also increase safety for motorists by separating the opposing lanes of traffic.
"Once the consultation stage is complete the project will progress to design and environmental evaluation.
“The N26 is the main artery for the region and this development will be a transformative project for north and East Mayo.
"Together with the Foxford Transport Plan at one end and the Ballina by-pass at the other, a project that I promoted as a member of the Roads Committee on Mayo County Council and will continue to pursue in my role on the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Transport, it is critical that this infrastructure is delivered for the safety and convenience of the community and to secure the prosperity of the region.”
Duffy has also called for the development of an active travel link to connect Foxford with Ballina as part of the project, starting at the canal-side walkway and connecting all the way through Carrentrila and Mount Falcon and on to Foxford.
Senator Duffy, who attended the public consultation at the Great National Hotel, Ballina, thanked the road design team at Mayo County Council for their co-operation and also the members of the public for their engagement to date and has encouraged further engagement to ensure that the N26 is designed in a way that responds to as many needs as possible.
Full details of the preferred route can be viewed at https://n26foxfordtomountfalcon.ie and submissions can be made via email to nro@mayococo.ie or by post to the Mayo National Roads Office, Glenpark House, The Mall, Castlebar.