‘Serious concerns’ in Waterford over omission of ‘critical’ N25 from Budget plans
Cllr Kate O’Mahoney raised the issue of the N25 at a recent meeting of Waterford City and County Council
“Serious concerns” have been raised in Waterford over the omission of plans for the N25 from Budget 2027.
The issue was raised by Sinn Féin councillor Kate O’Mahoney at the October plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council.
Cllr O’Mahoney said: “I’m asking that this council writes to the Minister for Transport to express its concern at the lack of any mention of the N25 in Budget 2027, despite a total allocation of over €5 billion to the Department of Transport next year.
“Given the strategic importance of the N25 to Waterford and the wider south east, its role in supporting local businesses, tourism and commuters, it is unacceptable that no specific commitment or ring-fenced funding has been identified for this critical route.
“The N25 in Waterford has been neglected for far too long.”
She went on to raise concerns over road safety and a lack of investment in the road in recent years.
“Despite repeated warnings, ongoing calls for action and a long history of collisions, there has been a lack of investment to address safety concerns and protect road users.
“Failing to prioritise investment in the N25 raises serious concerns around regional development, road safety and improving connectivity across the south east.
“This council should call on the minister to clarify why the N25 is being overlooked in Budget 2027 and to commit the necessary funding and provide a clear timeline for the progression and delivery of essential upgrades.”
In response to Cllr O’Mahoney, Director of Services Gabriel Hynes said he agreed with her comments.
However, Mr Hynes did point out that the council has carried out work at some junctions where there have been a number of collisions.
He continued: “The N25 [provides] key connectivity from the Cork direction to Waterford.
“It’s very important economically for us going forward, from a road safety point of view and also from a capacity point of view.
“In relation to engagement with the minister, we have as an executive engaged with the minister in relation to it.”
Mr Hynes went on to say that the council is looking at the best way to progress plans to upgrade the road.
“We are in discussions with TII and we’re trying to find a way forward to ensure that the N25 will get the priority it deserves.
“We’re looking at what way we can drive that from a strategy point of view, what reports we need to do.”
“It’s certainly one of our priorities, as it should be for you as members, your priority as well to ensure that Waterford will have the best connectivity with the other main capitals.”
He added that the upgrading of the N25 from Waterford to Limerick is also a key priority for the council.