An Coimisiún Pleanála has officially approved Meath County Council's planning application for the N2 Slane Bypass and Public Realm Enhancement Scheme.

The scheme, which is being developed by Meath County Council in conjunction with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), includes a 3.5km dual carriageway around Slane with a combined footway/cycleway, a 258-metre-long bridge over the River Boyne, and a number of public realm enhancements within Slane village.

The scheme also includes improved traffic management measures and works on the N51 between the proposed bypass and the centre of the village to further enhance community safety and wellbeing. 

The N51 Route Improvements encompasses upgrades between the village and the new N2/N51 roundabout and realignment of sections of the N51 to the east and west of the new roundabout. This will significantly improve the current sub-standard alignment as works will be conducted to improve existing bends and as well as visibility. 

These improvements also include a design to emphasise the approach to the village, bespoke landscaping, additional signage, and a 60km/h speed limit.

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A number of planned Public Realm Enhancements include a reconfigured junction at the Square incorporating the removal of traffic lights and slip lanes, in addition to traffic calming and signalised pedestrian crossings in the village.

A HGV 3-axle ban on the existing N2 within the village means HGV's will need to use the bypass, while other planned works includes a new off-street carpark which will be connected to the village via pedestrian and cyclist links, the removal of existing gantries at Mill Hill and other landscaping, urban design, and street scaping measures.

Welcoming the planning application approval, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr Wayne Harding said: "We are absolutely delighted with today's news as this vitally important project will address the transport needs of residents, businesses and visitors in the village of Slane and in the wider strategic road network within the vicinity. 

"Aside from significantly improving road safety in the area, this scheme will remove the bottleneck in the village, reducing traffic congestion and moving more heavy goods vehicles out of Slane, making the air much cleaner for all residents."

Chief Executive of Meath County Council, Kieran Kehoe, added: "This project will enhance Slane as a vibrant location for people to live, work and visit. While the new public realm enhancements and footway/cycleway will undoubtedly improve the health and wellbeing of all people living in the area, the proposed works will also have many economic benefits for the village.

"Access to a more connected transport network that includes more reliable public transport, improved facilities for active travel and a new off-street car-park, will boost the local economy within Slane and enable businesses to flourish."

More information on the N2 Slane Bypass and Public Realm Enhancement Scheme can be found here.