Wicklow's long awaited N81 safety upgrades could begin before 2030
Still a long wait for road users
Work on the long-awaited safety upgrades to the N81 may proceed sooner than expected, despite the project being omitted from the Government’s National Transport Review, according to the Táinaiste.
“In the Dáil last week, I raised the N81 with the Tánaiste and the fact that it was not included in the review. He confirmed that the reason is because the project falls below the €200 million threshold for inclusion. This means the N81 is not ruled out and could advance without having to wait until post-2030,” Deputy Jennifer Whitmore explained.
“The N81 is absolutely a safety issue. It is the only national road outside Dublin that has never had an upgrade. Communities along this route have been waiting far too long for improvements that will save lives. I was disappointed not to see it in the review, but the Tánaiste has assured me that the project will progress and that he has discussed it directly with the Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council,” Deputy Whitmore continued.
“I will continue to push for these crucial safety upgrades. Roads must be safe for all users, and the N81 cannot be left behind any longer. This is about protecting lives and ensuring that Wicklow’s infrastructure meets the needs of its people,” Deputy Whitmore concluded.