Council to ask Transport Minister to witness traffic problems for himself

By Chris Ashmore

Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District Council is writing to the Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien (inset) to invite him to visit Letterkenny in order to see first hand the serious traffic related difficulties that exist in the town.

The decision follows the passing of a motion from Cllr. Gerry McMonagle who warned of the need to “future proof” the town by investing heavily in its roads infrastructure.

Noting how Letterkenny is an “economic driver” for the north-west region and how it has successfully attracted considerable foreign direct investment in the past with its skilled workforce, the one thing that could “kill” this in the future is inadequate infrastructure and the congestion getting in and out of the town.

He welcomed the passing of what is known as a Part 8 planning approval which will pave the way for a major upgrading of the Windyhall Road, which is part of the plans for a Northern Relief Road around the town.

He stressed the need for additional funding for this and also the Southern Relief Road, across Leck.

He believes that these two arteries need to be developed in tandem with the major National Primary Road improvements under the European backed Ten-T proposals which will include a new bridge over the River Swilly on a new route already termed as the Bonagee Link.

Cllr. Michael McBride seconded the motion to get the Minister to visit the town.