Wicklow County Council is progressing the development of the N81 Route Improvement Schemes, namely the N81 Whitestown Lower and N81 Hangman’s Bend and Tuckmill Projects in conjunction with Kildare National Roads Office, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport.

These two separate projects are progressing in parallel, with the aim to address road deficiencies contributing to the poor road safety record on the network. The project team are progressing the planning and design of the project in accordance with the TII Project Management Guidelines.
The Options Study Phase of the project has concluded with the confirmation of the preferred options to be brought forward to the design and environmental evaluation phase. The Options Study Report and plan drawings of the preferred options are available on the project website, www.n81whitestownandtuckmill.ie.

The preferred options will be further refined and developed into preliminary designs over the coming months. Once the preliminary designs are sufficiently advanced, landowners affected by the proposed road scheme will be consulted to understand their needs and concerns, and to develop design solutions that minimise disturbance where possible, particularly regarding access arrangements and accommodation works.

Cllr. Avril Cronin, Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District, stated: “Wicklow County Council is committed to delivering safer, more reliable journeys for everyone who depends on the N81. The progression of these improvement schemes represents a significant investment in the well-being of our communities, enhancing road safety while supporting local connectivity and long-term regional development.”

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, commented that: “By addressing critical deficiencies on this key transport corridor, we are strengthening connections between communities, supporting sustainable growth, and ensuring the infrastructure can meet future demands. As the project progresses, we remain committed to constructive engagement with landowners and stakeholders to deliver a scheme that maximises public benefit and supports Wicklow’s continued development.”