Climate legislation may impact progress on new N17 route in Mayo

CONCERN has been raised about the possible impact climate action legislation might have in progressing plans for the new N17 route between Knock and Collooney.

Plans for a new ring road in Galway were scrapped after An Bord Pleanála said it did not take into account the State’s Climate Action Plan when considering the development.

Councillor Gerry Murray, at a municipal district meeting, said under the legislation all public transport or low carbon initiatives have to be explored.

His understanding is that there is a blockage due to the railway line, which is closed, but could be perceived as a low carbon solution.

The problem it presented was if a route for the N17 is nominated and goes to planning, you faced the prospect of a judicial review and it being sent back to planning.

That was his information, that it was a similar situation to the ring road in Galway.

Councillor Murray asked that Mayo County Council would seek clarification, that the situation can be resolved.

His colleague Councillor John Caulfield had requested an update for their January meeting on the route selection.

He also asked for an update on plans to build overpasses on the N5 at Swinford.

Elected members have been expressing concern about land along the possible N17 route corridors remaining sterilised for planning as a route has not yet been selected.