‘Leave enough time to beat the traffic’ – LUH

LETTERKENNY University Hospital is urging patients to leave adequate time to make it to their appointments given the relentless traffic congestion in the town.

The hospital confirmed to the Donegal News that it has measures in place to ensure patients they are transporting to the hospital via taxi hire arrive in time for appointments.

While General Manager Seán Murphy was yesterday unavailable for an interview on the matter, we asked the HSE if traffic issues in Letterkenny are affecting patients attending appointments, and whether patients are running late or simply not showing up for their appointments due to travel difficulties because of the scale of traffic clogging.

In a statement, a HSE spokesperson said: “Letterkenny University Hospital does ask patients to ensure that they allow sufficient time to make it to their appointments.

“Taxis hired by Letterkenny University Hospital are booked in advance so as to allow sufficient time to take patients to their appointments.”

The move comes amid mounting frustration among motorists at the continued volume of traffic around the town. The matter was the topic of a protracted discussion at the latest meeting of Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District.

An invite is to be sent to Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien to visit Letterkenny to witness at firsthand the town’s increasing traffic problems. The move comes following a motion by Cllr Gerry McMonagle, which subsequently received the backing of councillors.

Traffic heading out the Ramelton Road in Letterkenny.

Cllr McMonagle said the visit would give Donegal County Council an opportunity to press for the crucial need for major road infrastructure upgrades.

Meanwhile, the potential impact on businesses has also been brought under the spotlight. Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce President, Jimmy Stafford has told of the negative chain reaction due to severe journey delays because of ongoing active travel works.

The Chamber, which represents upwards of 300 businesses across the north west, has expressed its frustrations regarding the ongoing roadworks associated with the Active Travel projects.

Major delays were reported again on Monday and Tuesday morning on the Kilmacrennan road approach to and from the Letterkenny hospital roundabout.

“While we recognise the long-term benefits of improved infrastructure and sustainable transport, we are deeply concerned about the short-term disruption these works are causing particularly to local businesses, customers, and daily life in the town,” said Mr Stafford in a statement.

“We have communicated these concerns to the relevant authorities and stakeholders, highlighting the urgent need for better coordination, clearer communication, and stronger support for affected businesses.”

Mr Stafford said the Chamber has sought clarification on the proposed works at Ballyraine to include timings and communications.

“We will continue to advocate on your behalf and push for practical solutions that balance development with the needs of our community.”