N56 An Clochán Liath (Dungloe) to Glenties Road Opens following €100m Investment

The N56 An Clochán Liath (Dungloe) to Glenties road was officially opened by Mr Jack Chambers, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, in the presence of Cllr. Gerry Mc Monagle, Leas Chathaoirleach of Donegal County, Council on the 25th of April.

The project represents an investment more than €100M in improving approximately 27km of the N56 and also provided an independent 2m wide shared footway and cycle track. The project resulted in significant improvements to what was a poor-quality existing network in a region where the topographical, geological, and environmental constraints were very challenging. The project was delivered in 5 phases over 10 years and involved various design engineering consultants, site supervisory teams and construction contracts. Throughout that time the Donegal NRO and TII regional teams successfully coordinated and managed the planning, design and delivery of each phase.

This project has confined to folklore notorious sections of this section of the N56 such as the Gweebarra and Meenacarn bends. The improved national road and separate active traffic facilities are vital interurban links on Donegal’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Minister Chambers congratulated all those involved for their professionalism and resilience in delivering this entire project.

“This investment of over €100m in west Donegal underlines the Government’s commitment to both enhancing road safety initiatives and improving quality of life for people and communities in rural Ireland. The project delivers on infrastructure objectives within the NDP, and it also delivers on core policies within the National Planning Framework, particularly in respect of aiding and supporting rural growth and enhancing regional connectivity. The delivery of the full-length active travel facility is also a key component of the project which will help us reduce carbon emissions and promote healthier communities.”

Geraldine Fitzpatrick Head of Roads, Greenways and Regional Management for TII stated: “The official opening of the N56 Dungloe to Glenties is a testament to the collaborative efforts, by all those involved including, Donegal County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Department of Transport, and most importantly the residents and landowners along the entire route. The scheme has been delivered on a phased basis and the recently constructed section completes over 24km of single carriageway road with segregated active travel facilities. This project is having a positive impact on road user safety, tourism, economic development, and improved connectivity throughout region.”

Donegal County Council expressed its thanks to the many people of west Donegal whose land and property were acquired for this significant project and to the wider community affected during its phased delivery. We acknowledge all their cooperation and patience during the many years of construction.