Four major road projects for Cavan/Monaghan in review

Virginia bypass set to commence in 2029

The long-awaited N3 Virginia bypass, along with three other significant road projects across the Cavan Monaghan constituency, have been formally included in the Department of Transport’s sectoral plan as part of the forthcoming National Development Plan (NDP) Review, published today.

The confirmation came this evening from Fianna Fáil TD for the constituency, Deputy Brendan Smith, who has warmly welcomed the inclusion of the local projects.

The other road projects included in the plan are a major upgrade to the East–West Road (Cavan/Cootehill/Shercock), the N2 Ardee to South of Castleblayney, and the N2 Clontibret to the Border scheme.

Deputy Smith regards the inclusion of the Virginia Bypass in the NDP Review as the culmination of consistent, long-term political work, including parliamentary questions dating back to 2016, and more recent direct engagements with An Taoiseach and Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien on the need for the project.

“These four projects are crucial for improving accessibility and connectivity between our constituency and the wider region. I have raised the Virginia Bypass repeatedly for years since being elected to the Dáil, and it is very encouraging to see it now earmarked for commencement by 2029 at an estimated cost of €250–500 million.”

Provided there are no further delays, that could mean deliver of the project by 2031 or 2032.

Deputy Brendan Smith emphasised that both the Virginia Bypass and the East–West Road upgrade are critical projects for the entire county and surrounding areas.

“The upgrade to the East–West Road is essential and most welcome. It has been a priority for me in the NDP sectoral plan, and its inclusion demonstrates that Fianna Fáil in Government is putting it on the path to delivery,” he said.

He reaffirmed Fianna Fáil’s commitment to supporting major infrastructure projects and ensuring that infrastructure across the country is developed to the highest possible standards.

“I will continue working with my Fianna Fáil colleagues to keep these projects moving and to ensure that Cavan/Monaghan secures the infrastructure and investment it needs.”

The latest development follows a local progress report in the summer.

Cavan County Council then indicated its aim to submit a 'preliminary business case' to the Department in 2026 for the Virginia N3 Bypass.

Planning process documentation was being prepared in respect of the east Cavan town, which is routinely congested with traffic during rush hours.

Cavan County Council continues to progress the development of the project through the final elements of design and environmental evaluation and subject to the necessary Government approval. The local planning authority expects to submit plans for approval to An Coimisiún Pleanála next year.

The design revealed mid year includes several key elements crucial to the project’s development.

It outlines the indicative development boundary, encompassing land required for permanent and temporary works. The update shows the layout of the mainline, junctions, and side roads, including any proposed earthworks and slopes. It identifies too the provisional Emergency Refuge Areas and the locations of vital structures such as overbridges, underbridges, culverts, and Active Travel crossings.

It was hoped then that funding for the bypass could be secured under the government's flagship €100BN infrastructure investment plan set to be rolled out over the next five years. Approximately €30BN of the overall package for the revised National Development Plan 2026-30 is new funding, partially sourced from the Apple tax settlement and the sale of AIB shares.

Linking Derver to Lisgrey, and running north of Lough Ramor, the proposed route connects to both development lands at Burrencarragh and the R195 Oldcastle road. It includes two new roundabouts and overpasses the R178 Bailieborough Road.