Work is expected to commence in the coming weeks on the construction of the N5 road project from Ballaghadereen to Scramogue.
Contracts for the €200m scheme were signed by the contractor and Roscommon Co Council at that local authority’s offices this morning and An Taoiseach Mr Micheál Martin is due to travel to Roscommon to officially launch the project on Monday, October 18 next.
The project comprises the design and construction of a 34km single carriageway from the tie-in point of the N5 Ballaghaderreen bypass in the west to the existing N5 at Scramoge.
News of the contract signing was confirmed this morning by Roscommon FF Senator Eugene Murphy.
The N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road project comprises the design and construction of a 34km single carriageway from the tie-in point of the N5 Ballaghaderreen bypass in the west, passing to the south of Frenchpark, before crossing the existing N5 and passing to the north of Bellanagare and Tulsk villages.
The route then passes to the north of Clooncullaan Lough, before turning in a southerly direction to pass east of Strokestown to connect with the existing N5 at Scramoge.
Senator Murphy says the development, which represents a major investment in the region, will be welcomed in Roscommon particularly among those who live along the existing route which has been the site of many tragic accidents and fatalities over the years.
While such developments create issues for the local economies of the towns and villages that are by-passed, Senator Murphy says the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road project also presents an opportunity for Roscommon to nurture tourism by cultivating an attractive trail along the existing road network that will be protected from heavy traffic thanks to the new by-pass and enhanced with the addition of walking trails and cycling routes.
The construction phase will also signal a welcome boost to the local economy.
Contractors are expected to be on site to commence the project within a matter of weeks with the overall scheme expected to be completed in three years.
