'Gateway to the west' project hits major setback

Plans to upgrade another section of the N5 roadway between Mayo and Dublin have suffered a major setback.

The collapse of Roadbridge has placed in serious doubt a major stretch of new road infrastructure extending from Longford towards Ballaghaderreen.

Mayo Senator Paddy Burke has called for action to ensure the project proceeds.

He said: "The proposed route would bypass Strokestown.

"But it has been the subject of problems because Roadbridge went into receivership.

"The project may well have to be re-tendered.

"The infrastructure in question is very important to the west. It is the gateway to the west.

"The project has been approved and work has been done on it. The route has been fenced. I would like to know what is happening."