Louth County Council and Friends of Ardee Bog Agree on Collaborative Way Forward for N52 Ardee Bypass
Following constructive discussions, Louth County Council and Friends of Ardee Bog today announced a collaborative way forward for the N52 Ardee Bypass.
The agreement recognises and protects Ardee Bog, while Friends of Ardee Bog will withdraw their Supreme Court case, bringing the long-running legal dispute over the project to an end.
The Council will seek approval from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to recommence the project and progress to the next stage, with a view to realising this much-needed piece of road infrastructure for the town of Ardee in the short term, while continuing to engage with the Friends of Ardee Bog on measures to promote and safeguard the ecological importance of peatland in the area.
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:
“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, Chief Executive 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 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 bypass as soon as possible with our partners in the project, TII.”
Both Friends of Ardee Bog and Louth County Council said:
"We are very pleased with the outcome of these collaborative and constructive negotiations. This agreement demonstrates what can be achieved when parties engage respectfully, listen to one another and work in partnership towards a shared solution. We recognise and acknowledge also the active role played by the Ardee Traders and Businesses Association in bringing about this extremely positive resolution. Together we now have provided a pathway to deliver much-needed transport infrastructure for Ardee while recognising the importance of protecting its natural heritage.”
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 grow and prosper. I thank everyone whose commitment, detailed work and constructive engagement have brought the project to this important stage”.
Cllr Jim Tenanty, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, said:
“As Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District, I, along with my fellow councillors, also welcome the agreement and acknowledge the sustained efforts made to find a constructive resolution. We look forward to the bypass project progressing as soon as possible.”
Neither party intends to make any further comment on this matter.