Active travel, car parks and town connectivity

Active travel and sustainable connectivity continue to shape major capital projects in Carrickmacross.

Sinn Féin's Colm Carthy was informed that proposed safety measures along the Ballybay Road, including sections adjacent to Emmet Park and Gleann Droimnin, form part of a wider Active Travel Scheme covering the Ballybay Road, Castleblayney Road and Ross Road.

The project is currently awaiting feedback from the National Transport Authority before progressing to the next stage, Senior Engineer for the MD, Damien Thornton, told elected members attached to the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney MD, when they met at Castleblayney Library for their December meeting.

Fianna Fáil's PJ O’Hanlon received an update on the Shirley House Lane Car Park development.

Revised designs are now being prepared following road safety audits, with a Part 8 planning application expected later this month. This project, Mr Thornton pointed out, also forms part of the wider Carrickmacross Town Centre Renewal Programme under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund .

Progress is also ongoing on the Convent Lands Masterplan, which aims to improve pedestrian and cycling links between Convent Avenue and Carrickmacross Main Street.

Meanwhile, proposals in respect of Shirley House Lane Car Park is to Proceed to Part 8 Planning in January 2026.

Following an internal review and an updated Stage 1/2 Road Safety Audit, the Municipal District executive informed councillors at their last meeting in 2025 that they plan to amend the design layout of the proposed development.

The project forms part of the wider Carrickmacross Town Centre Renewal Programme, aimed at improving access, parking and public realm infrastructure. The planning application will allow for public consultation and consideration by elected members before any final decision is made.