The community of Islandeady have lodged an objection to a proposed three-month road closure of the main road through their community ( L-1811), during the construction of the new N5 dual carriageway between Castlebar and Westport.

Islandeady is nestled among the three towns of Westport, Newport and Castlebar and the community is vehemently opposed to the proposed road closure of what they say is “the only road that runs through the community”.

They say the closure, planned for three months of the summer, will have a major impact on those who reside along the road, those living in the wider area, and those who use the road regularly on their way to and from work.

They describe the alternative proposed roads as “time consuming, totally unsuitable and dangerous”, and are proposing an alternative solution which they believe would enable better access to be maintained throughout the development.

Liam Keaveney is the Chairman of Islandeady Community Council has been speaking to Midwest News about local concerns over the proposed alternative route on offer.