Lissywollen link road plan may face more delays

The start of construction on the new Lissywollen Avenue link road, which had been expected before the end of March, could now be delayed again until later in the year, Westmeath County Council has indicated.

The road forms the first part of the construction process for the massive 576-unit Lisswollen strategic housing development which was approved by An Bord Pleanála last June.

The Lissywollen project was proposed by Alanna Roadbridge Developments Limited, in partnership with the council, and when planning permission was granted the council indicated that work on site was likely commence before the end of 2021.

The local authority subsequently cited a start date during the first quarter of this year. It said there had been a delay in finalising "complex" negotiations between itself and Alanna Roadbridge.

At a meeting last Friday, council Director of Service Cathaldus Hartin was asked for an update on where things stand with the starting of work on Lissywollen Avenue, which will connect the Ballymahon Road with Garrycastle.

"The housing department are currently engaging in that area, in terms of its delivery, and it's anticipated that works will commence on that project in the coming year," said Mr Hartin.

"In the coming year?" repeated Cllr Aengus O'Rourke. "Well, there's a procurement process, and there's the final stage of the approval process with the Department," responded Mr Hartin.

"(A start date this year) is anticipated, but it's probably best to discuss it directly with the housing section who are the sponsors of the project."

Cllr O'Rourke said the road had been "talked about now for four years" but there was still no clear indication as to when it would begin.

"The money has long been allocated for it. The plans have been long agreed on it, and yet we haven't seen any advancement in it," he said.