€70,000 is to be spent on the construction of five bus shelters in three locations in Laois.
So says Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley who received confirmation about this from the National Transport Agency recently.
Two of these will be erected in Mountrath, two in Kilminchy and one in Ballybrittas.
Deputy Stanley said: “The National Transport Authority (NTA) have now informed me that they have approved €70,000 for works on 5 bus shelters at these 3 locations.
“Works are to be tendered to contractors in the coming weeks.”
On completion of these 5 shelters the NTA say that hey will continue the development and roll out of subsequent bus shelter provision in the County in collaboration with the County Council.
Deputy Stanley said: “I have also been making representations to the NTA for a number of bus shelters in other locations, including Borris in Ossory, Crettyard, Newtown and Ballylinan along with Portlaoise Hospital.
“The NTA state that these are now ‘under assessment for installation’.
“They have also confirmed their intention to replace existing shelters at Portlaoise Hospital and JFL Avenue.’’
“I welcome this progress as they are badly needed to provide a level of protection from the wind and rain for bus users.
“It will also encourage more people to use the bus services in the County and have the added benefit of reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion on our roads.
“It is my intention to press for the provision of shelters at all of the above locations within the shortest timeframe.”
