Councillors call for government taskforce to address Letterkenny traffic and infrastructure

Donegal County Council councillors urged the Irish Government to set up a high‑level taskforce to tackle the growing traffic congestion and infrastructure shortfalls in Letterkenny.

Sinn Féin councillor Gerry McMonagle told the council’s plenary meeting that Letterkenny has had development plans for almost 20 years, but the required state funding to turn those plans into roads and services has not materialised. He said the town’s businesses, residents and visitors are suffering as a result.

McMonagle proposed a taskforce involving relevant government departments, State agencies, the county council and representatives from business, education, health and community sectors. The group would develop a strategic framework covering infrastructure, housing, transport, water services and investment.

He highlighted the pressure on the town’s roads, noting the growth of the ATU, the business sector and daily traffic increases. While welcoming progress on the Northern Relief Road, which will support 654 new homes, he warned that additional development could exacerbate congestion, especially on the northern side of town.

The councillor also called for a masterplan for South Letterkenny, warning that inadequate roads, water and wastewater infrastructure are limiting development and could make homes unaffordable if developers are forced to fund the works alone.

Independent councillor Declan Meehan seconded the motion, describing Letterkenny as a “tale of two cities” – acknowledging some investment while stressing that resources and funding remain insufficient to resolve the town’s challenges.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Altaf Shah / Pexels.