Clare County Council, in collaboration with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport, has released the final design update for the N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme.

Design Update No 1, published in March 2023, introduced a range of active travel measures for walking and cycling, enhanced public transport facilities, and upgrades to road infrastructure between Drumgeely Roundabout and Knockbeagh Point Roundabout leading to Shannon International Airport.

Since completing Design Update No 1, the design team has advanced the design and environmental assessment of the preferred option. The final design has now been completed after extensive stakeholder engagement and thorough review of environmental surveys, transport surveys and ground investigations.

The project will have a positive impact on the attractiveness and efficiency of public transport and will cater for an enhanced bus service. New and improved active travel infrastructure are a key component of this project and improved active travel links to Shannon Airport and the Shannon Free Zone will further encourage modal shift, the use of sustainable forms of transport and inter-modal connectivity.

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The final design update marks a significant advancement in the project development process. The design team is now focused on finalising the environmental impact assessment report and preparing to submit the planning application to An Bord Pleanála in 2024, pending all required approvals.

Mr. Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council stated: "The publication of the final design update for the N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme is a significant step as we look forward to delivering a reliable, sustainable, multi-modal transport solution that will enhance the connectivity of Shannon Airport, the Shannon Free Zone and the wider mid-west region. The project will unlock further economic growth potential by improving active travel and public transport connections along the N19, which ultimately will help facilitate and support the sustainable growth and development of Shannon Airport, the Shannon Free Zone, and Shannon town. The project will have a positive impact on the local community ensuring that road safety and the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and vulnerable road users has been a priority throughout the design development process. Clare County Council looks forward to working with Transport Infrastructure Ireland to advance this project through the statutory procedures and subsequent phases."