Louth County Council has welcomed the announcement by the Department of Transport of €22,456,092 in funding for national, regional and local roads in 2026.
The funding forms part of a wider national investment of more than €1.5 billion for roads, representing a 13 per cent increase on 2025 levels.
Of the total allocation, €10,810,650 has been awarded for regional and local roads in Louth. This funding will support a broad range of works, including resurfacing, pavement upgrades, general repairs, drainage works and climate adaptation measures at Ballintesik, Thomastown and Howes Hill.
A significant programme of bridge rehabilitation is also planned, with works scheduled at Monavalet, Dungooly, Ballyragan, Ballykelly and Annagassan.
Safety upgrades will be delivered at a number of locations across the county, including:
- R132 in Dunleer
- Carrickcarnan
- R166 in Termonfeckin
- Collon
- Grangebellew
- Lordship
- Ardee Road in Dundalk
- Orchard Villas in Termonfeckin
- Old Golf Links Road in Blackrock
These works will focus on improving junction layouts, road markings, signage and visibility for all road users.
An additional €540,000 has been allocated for the strategic rehabilitation of the R215, the former N52 route.
One of the most significant projects included in this year’s programme is the continued development of the Port Access Northern Cross Route in Drogheda. Funding of €350,000 has been provided for Phase 3 of the project, allowing it to progress to the detailed design stage.
A further €350,000 has been allocated for the R178 Cavan to Dundalk scheme, bringing the total strategic regional and local road allocation to €700,000.
Louth’s national road network will also benefit from €11,645,442 in funding allocated by Transport Infrastructure Ireland. This includes a €10 million pavement reconstruction scheme on the N53 between Hackballscross and Rassan, the largest individual road project in the region.
In addition, €292,442 has been allocated for routine and winter maintenance, along with continued investment in lighting and engineering support across the national road network.
Further capital funding of €1.15 million will support pavement works on the N52 at Bóthar na mBó, as well as safety and junction improvements on the N2 at the R169 junction and Castle Street in Ardee.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said:
This year’s allocation represents a major opportunity to enhance the transport network in Louth. It will bring benefits to every part of the county by improving surface conditions, addressing long-standing safety concerns and strengthening the network’s resilience to severe weather. The inclusion of the PANCR, the realignment of the N53, and continued and significant improvement works on the N52 demonstrate the Council’s focus on advancing projects that support long-term growth and connectivity across the whole county.
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: We welcome this significant Government investment in Louth’s road network. This level of funding allows us to deliver real and lasting improvements right across the county. We appreciate the strong support shown by our national partners, and we look forward to working with them to ensure these projects are delivered efficiently and to the highest standard for the people of Louth.
