Frustration as Mayo's 'Black Triangle' excluded from Active Travel investment

Ballyhaunis-based Fine Gael Councillor Alma Gallagher has expressed deep frustration and disappointment over the continued omission of what she describes as the ‘Black Triangle’ area, which encompasses Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh and Charlestown, from receiving funding under the latest Active Travel initiative.

This exclusion follows a pattern of neglect, as the region has been consistently overlooked in terms of investment from the National Transport Authority (NTA) to Mayo County Council for the development of Active Travel corridors.

Councillor Gallagher described the situation as 'disgraceful', pointing out that the area has immense potential to become a significant and thriving 'Golden Circle' for tourism and local growth.

However, this potential remains untapped due to the criteria laid down by the NTA for eligibility for the scheme.

“The situation is particularly concerning given the recent history of the area’s funding setbacks. Just two years ago more than €220,000 was de-committed from Ballyhaunis, exacerbating the already existing infrastructural challenges,” said Councillor Gallagher. “These setbacks highlight a systemic failure to prioritise balanced regional development and to ensure that areas outside of the major urban centres are not left behind.”

Her comments underscore the ongoing disparity in how resources are allocated within counties, particularly when it comes to rural and peripheral areas that are just as deserving of investment as more urbanised parts of the county.

“Balanced regional development is a principle that should extend beyond national policy,” Councillor Gallagher commented. “It must be reflected at the local level as well.

“For east Mayo to flourish it needs access to the same opportunities and resources available to other parts of the county. The failure to provide funding for Active Travel in this area not only hinders local economic growth but also prevents the region from becoming a key part of a larger regional network that could bring substantial benefits to the community and surrounding areas.

“This area could easily become a hub for sustainable travel and tourism, having the world’s largest sports dome at the Centre of Excellence, the village of Knock and Ireland West Airport all on our doorstep.

“It is deeply frustrating to see such potential ignored while other areas receive significant funding.

“The imbalance in development is not just an issue for local residents but also for the broader goals of economic equality and sustainable growth. By side-lining towns like Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh and Charlestown, and their hinterlands, the authorities are sending a message that the needs of rural areas are less important than those of larger urban centres. This only exacerbates the feeling of disconnection and inequality that many rural communities already feel.”

Councillor Gallagher’s comments highlight a critical need for change in how regional development is approached, not only at a national level but also at the county level.

“The failure to invest in areas like this is not just a missed opportunity - it is an ongoing injustice that denies communities the resources they need to thrive. For the region to reach its full potential, it must receive the investment and attention it deserves.

“Balanced development is not a luxury, but a necessity for enhancing vital rural infrastructure’’ she said.