Long-awaited progress on notorious Mayo road as council appoints consultants

A notorious stretch of road in north Mayo has taken a significant step toward long-overdue upgrades, with consultants now identified to oversee the next phase of the project.

Fianna Fáil councillor Michael Loftus confirmed the development, describing it as a breakthrough after sustained pressure on Mayo County Council.

"After a lot of pushing and fighting with the council, I am delighted to see in the County Manager’s report today that successful consultants have been identified for the R315 Castlehill section of the Crossmolina to Lahardane road project," he said.

"An application will now be made to the Department of Transport to award the contract. Local people have been waiting too long for this road to be upgraded, but hopefully, this is a step in the right direction."

The long-awaited upgrade is expected to improve safety and connectivity on a route that has been the subject of frustration for years.

The latest development follows an update in September from former Independent councillor Mark Duffy, who was told by Mayo County Council officials that the next steps would involve consultants overseeing Phase 3 (Design and Environmental Evaluation) and Phase 4 (Statutory Processes) of the scheme.

These phases, which include detailed design work and securing planning approvals, are expected to take around 18 months to complete once the contract is awarded. The project will then be submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval.