Progress on Blueway underpass in Leitrim delayed by two months
Progress on the proposed Drumhauver Bridge underpass has been delayed by around two months, with planning documents now being prepared ahead of a funding application.
Progress on plans for an underpass at Drumhauver Bridge in Drumshanbo has been delayed by around two months, with Part 8 planning now ongoing before funding for construction can be sought.
This was confirmed at a meeting of Ballinamore Municipal District, where Cllr Brendan Barry asked for an update on progress towards installing an underpass for the Blueway Canal Walk at Drumhauver Bridge, Drumshanbo, and when construction is likely to commence.
Leitrim County Council requested an update from Waterways Ireland, which confirmed that Punch Consulting Ltd were appointed in December 2025 to progress the Drumhauver Underpass through Part 8 planning.
The proposed timeline was for a Part 8 submission by September 2026. However, delays in completing the ground investigations have pushed this back by approximately two months.
The site investigations have now been completed, with planning documents ongoing. Funding for construction cannot be sought until Part 8 planning has been granted.
Cllr Barry said he welcomed the update and that progress was being made.
The motion was seconded by Cllr Enda McGloin, who commented, “Hopefully we can get moving on this, it’s a busy spot especially in the summer.”
Cllr Barry also asked that the L-7310-1 road in the townland of Aghlin, Aughnasheelin, be patched in the short term and included for a Restoration Improvement Grant going forward.
He further welcomed the response from the Roads Department, which stated that the velocity patcher will be scheduled to carry out repairs and that the road can be added to the next three-year programme, subject to funding and agreement from councillors.