Major announcement as long-awaited Leitrim bypass moves forward

Funding has now been secured and plans are being finalised to advance construction of the Carrick-on-Shannon bypass, with the project still on track for completion by 2030, according to a Department of Transport announcement.

The long-discussed bypass for Carrick-on-Shannon has been a recurring point of contention and is widely viewed as “desperately overdue.” 

The proposed six-kilometre route is intended to ease the heavy daily traffic congestion that builds up in the town, with locals greeting each update with cautious optimism given how many years the project has been in discussion.

The Department’s confirmation that the bypass remains on track for delivery by 2030 forms part of the wider Transport Sectoral Plan.

Other major investments for the Northwest include construction of the N17 from Knock to Collooney and the Eastern Garavogue Bridge, both scheduled to commence works by 2030. The N15 is to be advanced to delivery-ready status within the next five years, with construction to follow.

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Minister of State Marian Harkin has warmly welcomed the Department’s announcement.

The Transport Sectoral Plan, published today following the NDP review, is described by Minister Harkin as a decisive step for balanced regional development. “For decades, I have argued that balanced regional development must begin with proper infrastructure and connectivity, and today’s announcement shows that this principle is finally being put into action. The Northwest is seeing long-promised, long-overdue investment delivered.”

She stressed the significance of this moment for communities across Sligo, Leitrim, South Donegal, and the wider region: “The N17, in particular, is a major national artery, yet for years it has been dangerous, outdated, and a brake on regional growth. Communities, businesses, farmers, and tourists have all felt the impact. Upgrading this route is essential if we are serious about supporting the Northwest on equal terms with the rest of the country.”

Minister Harkin added that the N15 has also been long delayed: “Equally, the N15 has been in the pipeline for decades and, in fact, was ready for commencement just before the crash in 2008, it is a significant development to see it reinstated and earmarked for delivery. 

“The improvements to the Eastern Garavogue Bridge and its approach roads have been sought for a long time,” she continued, “along with the completion of the Carrick-on-Shannon by-pass, these projects are set to transform the roads infrastructure in Sligo, Leitrim and South Donegal.

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“Balanced regional development is no longer just a slogan, we are seeing it delivered. These infrastructure commitments mark a major step toward a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Northwest,” Minister Harkin concluded.

Minister of State, Frank Feighan, has said the investment in transport in Leitrim and Sligo represents a "decisive step towards building the transport system Ireland needs for the decades ahead."

He added: “Families, commuters and businesses in Leitrim and Sligo will feel the benefits from this programme through safer roads, faster journey times and stronger communities.”