On 14 April last, the further information request from An Board Pleanála was responded to with the submission of a comprehensive report and attachments. This submission marks a significant step forward in the planning process for a project that is essential to the future of transport infrastructure in Galway City and County and indeed the wider western region.
Galway City Council, Galway County Council and our colleagues in Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), remain fully committed to the delivery of the N6 Galway City Ring Road (N6- GCRR). This project is a key component of the Galway Transport Strategy (GTS), which seeks to address the longstanding transportation challenges facing Galway City and the wider Western Region.
The N6-GCRR is one of the key priority projects identified within the GTS, and we are pleased to confirm that the further information requested has now been submitted to An Bord Pleanála. Alongside other major transport initiatives at planning stage under the GTS, such as the Cross-City Link and the Dublin Road Multi-Modal Transport Corridor, the N6-GCRR will play a vital role in delivering a more sustainable and integrated transport network for Galway. This is evident through the work that has been done to show how the scheme is consistent with the Climate Action Plan. The N6 Galway City Ring is fully aligned, and supported by, the National Planning Framework in particular National Strategic Objective Outcome 2 and 5.
Together, the projects above, will complement one another in meeting the transport needs of Galway, delivering long-term benefits for local communities, commuters and the regional economy.
The N6-GCRR is crucial for reducing traffic congestion, improving regional connectivity, and supporting the continued economic development of Galway. It will facilitate a modal shift by removing heavy goods vehicles and strategic through-traffic from the city centre.
This, in turn, will enable the delivery of a more efficient and reliable public transport system while also creating a safer and more attractive urban environment for pedestrians and cyclists, improving safety, air quality and noise levels.
Key benefits of the N6-GCRR, as outlined in the recently updated Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR), include:
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Supporting a sustainable and integrated transport solution for Galway
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Enabling safer urban streets through the removal of strategic traffic and reallocation of road space for active travel
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Reduced journey times across the network
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Enabling compact and sustainable future growth of the city
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Supporting the continued economic development of Galway and the West of Ireland
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Improving air quality for residents and visitors
Both Councils remain focused and committed to progress this strategic piece of infrastructure to deliver a more connected, accessible, and liveable Galway and Western Region for all.