€30m road works upgrade in north Tipperary to begin as contractor appointed
Wills Bros to improve 4.3km stretch of R498 project expected to finish in two years
A major road realignment in north Tipperary is set to begin in the coming weeks following the appointment of Wills Bros Ltd as the main contractor. The Latteragh Bends project will target a dangerous section of the R498 between Thurles and Nenagh.
The scheme involves improving a 4.3-kilometre stretch of the regional road at Latteragh, approximately seven kilometres south-east of the M7 Nenagh Bypass. The contractor is now mobilising on site, with hedge cutting scheduled to start next week ahead of traffic management measures.
Valued at €30 million, the project required the compulsory purchase of land from more than 30 local landowners. The Department of Transport has approved €20 million for the civil works, while a further €4 million has been allocated to cover design fees, consultants, and compensation payments.
Speaking on social media, north Tipperary TD Michael Lowry highlighted the significance of the scheme. “Major road realignment on the Borrisoleigh to Nenagh road at Latteragh have been sanctioned to proceed at a total cost of €30 million after a tendering process, a preferred contractor has been notified of their tender acceptance,” he wrote. He added that the contractor has a two-year programme to complete the works.
Mr Lowry also explained the progress with land acquisition. “There are 30 landowners impacted by the CPO system and as a result of the CPO system all the required land is in the possession of the Council. All the affected landowners have received offers of compensation, a number have accepted the offers and have already been paid. The majority are still in negotiations with respective valuers,” he said.
The north Tipperary TD described the project as a crucial investment in local infrastructure. “I am delighted with this project because the Latteragh road is a major piece of vital infrastructure which will be dramatically improved after this investment,” he concluded.