By Conor Galligan
Plans for the N6 Galway City Ring Road are set to progress onto its next stage following the announcement that all judicial review proceedings against the project have been brought to a close.
The judicial review proceedings, brought forward by cycling advocate Shane Foran, were withdrawn on Monday, 2 November.
Galway County Council, Galway City Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) have welcomed the decision, which follows engagement between Mr Foran, Galway City Council and the project team.
The discussions between all involved parties focused on the City Council’s wider transport functions and plans to improve cycling facilities across Galway City.
In partnership with TII, the Ring Road project is being progressed by Galway County Council on behalf of local authorities.
According to two local authorities and TII, the group is committed to delivering the project alongside improvements to public transport, walking, and cycling infrastructure. These developments will reportedly be in line with the Galway Transport Strategy.
Council staff and the project team will stay in communication with homeowners, who are located along the proposed route, providing information and support as discussions continue on the acquisition of their homes.
Following the withdrawal of all judicial review proceedings, the project is focused on progressing towards its design and delivery.
Reaction
The decision has also been welcomed by Fine Gael TD Seán Kyne, who noted that this announcement “will now clear the way for this project to move forward to tender and construction.”
Deputy Kyne also described the news as a “hugely significant milestone for Galway city and county”.
“The Ring Road will improve connectivity across the city and county, ease congestion, and strengthen access to Connemara and for communities west of the city, including Knocknacarra,” he added.
While outlining the proposed benefits of the Ring Road, the Galway West TD acknowledged that its development will be difficult for a number of families whose homes and properties are directly affected by the scheme.