Ardee bypass plans back on track after legal challenge to project withdrawn

Proposals for the Ardee Bypass, which will run from Mandistown Drumconrath on the Ardee-Kells Road to north of Ardee town are back on track.

Following constructive discussions with Louth County Council, The Friends of Ardee Bog have withdrawn their legal challenge to the project.

Louth County Council will seek approval from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to recommence the project and progress to the next stage, while continuing to engage with the Friends of Ardee Bog on measures to promote and safeguard the ecological importance of peatland in the area.

The friends of Ardee Bog have been campaigning against the proposed N52 bypass of Ardee which will run through the Mandistown, Cortown roads of north Meath as well as the famous Ardee Bog, for years. They had warned of the risk of flooding and the need to protect the unique wildlife and vegetation of the bog.

The Council and the friends of Ardee Bog jointly announced that they had found a collaborative way forward for the N52 Ardee Bypass. The agreement recognises and protects Ardee Bog and the long-running legal dispute over the project to an end.

This outcome reflects a shared recognition that Ardee urgently needs relief from traffic congestion and heavy through-traffic, together with a shared commitment to protecting the local environment. The proposed bypass has the potential to improve road safety, reduce congestion in the town centre, enhance quality of life for residents and support the sustainable economic development of Ardee and the wider region.

A spokesperson for the group said “The Friends of Ardee Bog welcomes the partnership approach that has led to this positive outcome. We believe it is possible to address Ardee’s transport needs while also securing meaningful recognition and protection for the bog. We look forward to continuing to work with the Council so that environmental stewardship remains central as the project develops.”

David Conway CE of Louth County Council said: “This is a very positive day for Ardee. The bypass is vital to improving safety, easing congestion and enabling the town to grow and prosper. Louth County Council recognise the sincere intentions of the Friends of the Ardee Bog and I commend all for entering into constructive dialogue and reaching an outcome that balances the needs of the community with respect for our environment. We will now work to complete the by-pass as soon as possible with our partners in the project, TII.”

Cllr Dolores Minogue Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council said; “This is excellent news for Ardee, the community I am proud to represent. As Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, I welcome the opportunity this bypass presents to support the town as it continues to growth and prosper.”

Cllr Jim Tenanty Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District of Ardee said “As Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District of Ardee, I along with my fellow councillors also welcome the agreement and acknowledged the sustained efforts made to find a constructive resolution. We how look forward to the by-pass project progressing as soon as possible.”