Two Local Authorities Planning To Develop Significant Stretch Of N4

Friday, 8 May 2020 10:15

Westmeath and Longford County councils are asking the public to give their thoughts.

Two Midlands county councils are exploring the possibility of upgrading a significant section of the N4.

Westmeath and Longford executives, along with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, are assessing development options for a 52km stretch between Mullingar and Roosky.

They've established that safety is compromised due to the volume of traffic on the current single lane carriageway encompassing Edgeworthstown, Ballinalack, Rathown and Longford.

A preferred route selection report was established a decade ago, but due to updates in legislation they now have to fully re-appraise the report.

Due to Covid-19 measures, the local authorities are inviting residents of the areas, members of the public and interested parties to participate in a new public consultation for the scheme.

The preferred route for the potential upgrade of the N4 isn't expected for 18 months.

The two local authorities and TII have begun a public consultation process with submissions being accepted until June 26th.

The type of road will be decided using predicted traffic figures for the road, with initial indications suggesting a dual carriageway will be required.

Project Engineer with Westmeath County Council, Anna Marie Coroon, is confident the public will be able to voice their opinions without the usual public meeting: