A Clare councillor says he fears that a financial shortfall is holding back the progress of the Northern Distributor Road project.
It’s emerged that contractors do not intend to start work on the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road, which will link Clare to the University of Limerick, until autumn at the earliest.
The second phase of the project was not included in Budget 2021, prompting several of Clare’s Oireachtas representatives to emphasise the importance of the project to the region.
The Department of Transport has told Clare FM that Minister Eamon Ryan is considering a local rail link in conjunction with the project.
Sixmilebridge-based Independent councillor PJ Ryan says it’s not clear why the project continues to be delayed.
Department of Transport statement:
“Minister Ryan is considering this project carefully as part of the review of the National Development Plan, as well the increased ambition for public transport particularly rail, in the Programme for Government. The Minister believes investment in local rail could provide much improved connectivity for people across Limerick. He will be meeting virtually with residents later this week, and hopes to visit the area, Covid restrictions permitting, to ensure local input into the final decision.”
