BREAKING: Sound barrier funding announced for Athlone By-Pass

Minister of State Kevin 'Boxer' Moran has welcomed confirmation that funding is being advanced for work on the provision of sound barriers along the N6 Athlone Relief Road.

Minister Moran has been engaging closely with local government Minister Darragh O'Brien in relation to progressing this long-standing issue for residents affected by traffic noise.

“I am delighted to announce that an initial allocation of €400,000 has been made available to advance this project. This is very welcome news for the families and communities most impacted along the route,” Minister Moran said.

Westmeath County Council has confirmed that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has been in contact regarding the delivery of noise barriers on the N6 through Athlone.

Following discussions, it has been agreed that the next step will involve the preparation of a detailed technical report building on the study previously completed by the council.

In 2023, a consultants' report commissioned by Westmeath County Council found that people living in estates near the dual carriageway were being subjected to excessive and intrusive noise pollution from passing traffic.

A detailed survey carried out by the consultants in January 2023 confirmed that traffic noise at seven separate locations along the route exceeded recommended guidelines during the day and also at night.

In fact, the noise levels at Cloghanboy Close were found to be “significantly higher” than the permitted guidelines.

The new phase will include the appointment of specialist consultants, the surveying of affected areas, necessary sub-surface investigations and the preparation of detailed design proposals for each identified location

Upon completion of this work, any required statutory approvals, such as planning permissions, will be sought before detailed construction contract documents are finalised.

Minister Moran added: “I look forward to continued progress on this important project. I remain committed to ensuring that residents see real movement on the ground, and I will keep the community informed as developments advance.”

The announcement of funding to progress the project further comes in the wake of calls by local councillors for the State to step up to meet the estimated circa €9-10m cost of the work.