North Navan link road moves to planning stage

New distributor road will shave two hectares off Blackwater Park

A NEW road which would bring welcome relief to the traffic congestion in north Navan is moving closer to reality. The new distributor road linking the Clonmagadden Road with the Kells Road is expected to go to planning shortly.

Landowners, local residents and public representatives have been informed and Meath County Council is expected to shortly move a part eight planning permission for the project, which will also include a compulsory purchase process. The distributor road, which is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in north Navan will encroach on Blackwater Park, shaving two hectares off the edge of the amenity and will continue through the site of the former Agriculture Dept offices to the existing roundabout on the Kells Road. Three potential route corridors for the proposed new road were considered in recent years.

"The development of a new bridge over the river Blackwater is an excellent project that will benefit the people of Navan no end over the coming years,” said Cllr Edward Fennessy.

“The rapid expansion of the town over the past thirty years placed huge pressure on existing infrastructure such as roads. North Navan has been particularly hard hit with congestion problems. The bridge will address those problems and make life easier for local residents.

“I welcome this proposal and commend Meath County Council for their work,” he said.

Cllr Padraig Fitzsimons also welcomed the project, pointing out that it would be great relief to traffic congestion.

“At peak times, there can be queues 45 minutes long on the Rathaldron Road,” he said.

“This will provide an alternative route and new bridge into the town and it will also allow for further development in north Navan, where lands are already zoned.

“This will be welcomed by the people of Navan and particularly those at the north end of the town who only have one access to the town.

“It will take a lot of traffic away from the town. Those going to Dublin can access the motorway without going into town. It will be great for school goers, workers in the town and commuters,” Cllr Fitzsimons concluded.

The route will open up pedestrian and cycling access to Blackwater Park from the centre of the town. The existing roundabout will be replaced with a four armed signal controlled junction. The new roadway will run 40metres away from the circular walkway in Blackwater Park and there will be landscaping. At the moment, the only route into Navan from the North of the town is via the inner relief road, linking the Round O with the fire station and this route is a nightmare in the mornings with lengthy tailbacks on the Rathaldron Road, as well as the Proudstown Road and the Slane Road.

The road has been identified in the Navan Development Plan for many years.

Main pic shows where the new road will emerge.