Concerns have been raised by an Independent Louth councillor over the failure to draw down National Transport Authority funding allocated for bus shelters during 2025.
The matter was brought before Louth County Council’s January meeting by Cllr Declan Power. Councillors were told that the funding had not been used because national design specifications were not available at the time. It has since been confirmed that these specifications are now in place, allowing work to proceed.
Following the meeting, Cllr Power described the situation as unacceptable.
“It is extremely disappointing to learn that in 2025, Louth County Council failed to spend NTA funding that is specifically ring-fenced for bus shelters and bus stop enhancements. The NTA allocates approximately half a million euro annually to each local authority for this purpose, and in Louth not a cent of it was spent. That is simply not good enough. If design specifications was a problem why wasn’t pressure put on NTA to present designs. What was wrong with the existing designs”
He said the funding is vital for those who rely on public transport on a daily basis and highlighted the conditions many passengers are currently facing.
“This is funding is badly needed. We have students, elderly people, people commuting to work, standing on the side of roads in the rain and cold with no shelter and, in many cases, no proper bus stop. When funding like this is available, it should be treated as a priority. This is money for jam and someone dropped the ball.”
Cllr Power said he had received assurances that steps are now being taken to ensure funding will be fully utilised in 2026.
“I have received assurances that for 2026 there will be a structured plan in place and that any funding awarded by the NTA will be fully spent on delivering bus shelters and adequate bus stop infrastructure. That is welcome, but it must be followed through.”
He added that the responsibility now lies with Louth County Council to ensure progress is made.
“The NTA has provided the funding and the necessary support. What Louth County Council must now do is identify suitable locations and engage with the relevant stakeholders over the coming weeks and months. This is not complex. It’s about planning, engagement and delivery and I will be holding the council accountable to ensure this happens.”
Cllr Power said he will continue to monitor developments to ensure communities across County Louth see meaningful improvements delivered.
