€12.6m has been allocated for the maintenance and renewal of the road network in Laois.
This is a very substantial allocation and it will allow major improvement and restoration works to be carried out on a large number of roads throughout the county.
In addition to these grants, there are two specific improvement grants to carry out much needed safety improvement works on the R445 (formerly N7) which is the road from Portlaoise to Borris in Ossory.
€200,000 has been allocated for improvement works at Redcastle Cross which is the junction before Mountrath coming from Portlaoise.
A separate allocation of €200,000 for improvement works has been allocated for Derrin Cross which is the junction, coming from Castletown before Borris-in-Ossory.
Now that these two grants have been approved, the detailed design work can now proceed.
In addition, there is €250,000 for resurfacing the R445 at Clonboyne, Portlaoise.
Safety improvement works will be carried out at The Heath, Ballinakill, Durrow, Cashel, Foxcroft Street Portarlington, Clonaslee, Raheen and Castletown/Ballickmoyler. There is also €452,000 for Community Improvement Schemes.
€323,000 has been allocated for Bridge Rehabilitation Works at: Poormans Bridge, Booraghaun Bridge Errill, Bridge Street Portlaoise, Inch/Curraclone Bridge and Tinnahinch Bridge Clonaslee.
Minister for State Sean Fleming welcomed the news.
He said: “This is good news for the County and I look forward to Laois County Council finalising its’ roadworks programme shortly and carrying out all these works in 2021.
“These improvement works will make roads in Laois safer for all road users.”
Speaking this morning, Deputy Charlie Flanagan said the funding is crucial in enhancing road safety.
He stated: “This funding will cover routine maintenance to safeguard our infrastructure, ensure that our roads are resilient against the deteriorating effects of climate change and also contains provisions for walking and cycling infrastructure and safety schemes.
“Maintaining our regional and local road network in Laois is not only important for connectivity, but crucial to ensuring safety on our roads, reducing road collisions and protecting lives.
“Funding for the roll out of a signage programme relating to lower speed limits in housing areas as well as ‘safe passing’ signs for cyclists will also be provided for as part of today’s allocations.
“Routine maintenance works are fundamental to safeguarding our road infrastructure and keeping the network in a good condition
“All strategic road improvement investment schemes will include provisions for walking and cycling infrastructure to take account of the needs of all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.”
While Green Party Minister for State, Pippa Hackett
She said: “This allocation of €12,639,322 for Laois County Council is essential for the maintenance of our road network.
“Both motorists and bus passengers depend on good roads for connectivity and a safe, comfortable journey. I’m delighted to see this investment in our roads in Laois.”
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