It’s hoped a new road in Shannon can get at least as far as the planning permission stage this year in the interest of Shannon Airport’s continued growth.
It’s just one of the projects being named as a priority by Clare’s local elected representatives for 2025.
Following the co-option of James and Conor Ryan last month, Clare County Council will meet for the first time this year on Monday January 13th.
Among the long-awaited projects expected to get over the line in the coming months is the Ennis Town Bus Service which was included by name in Budget 2025.
The service will feature two routes, with one traversing Ennis from the Lahinch Road to the Tulla Road, while the second will go from Clarecastle to Ballymaley via Friar’s Walk.
Mayor of Ennis, Fianna Fáil Councillor Clare Colleran-Molloy, says the service will be in operation by the end of June.
Moving to Clare’s second largest town, a recent update from the local authority on the N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme indicated that the design team are working towards finalising the documentation required for a planning application.
The road, which has been in the works for a number of years, would go from the roundabout at Drumgeely to the airport, and would feature six controlled pedestrian crossings, new bus stops, cycle lanes, footpaths and public lighting.
Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District, Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O’Gorman, believes if the Clare base is expected to grow, the road must be in place as soon as possible.
Roads are also of major concern in the East Clare region which it’s often argued has been historically under-funded when it comes to maintaining and improving the roads network.
Leas Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District, Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Hayes claims many areas haven’t seen adequate levels of investment in recent times.
Turning to West Clare, all eyes appear to be on healthcare and specifically on access to emergency care.
The HIQA report examining the viability of a second emergency department in the Midwest isn’t due until June while an interim report has been promised by Taoiseach Simon Harris early this year.
Cathaoirelach of the West Clare Municipal District and Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney, who’s a member of the Regional Health Forum West, insists an new ED is needed and it must be in Ennis.
You can listen to the full interview here:
