N86 works delay warning

Long-awaited improvements to the N86 main road, through the Dingle Peninsula, could be delayed for up to 20 years if An Bord Pleanála does not give the all-clear for the work to proceed.

The warning came from Kerry Co Council’s roads director Charlie O’Sullivan regarding a €65m scheme to widen and straighten a large section of a narrow road between Dingle and Tralee.

The project was the subject of a Bord Pleanála hearing, earlier this year, and the board decided the council must go back to the drawing board.

Mr O’Sullivan, however, told the council’s November meeting there could be lengthy delays in doing the work if the bord turns down its plan.

“It would be very disappointing if Bord Pleanála refuses permission for the plan,” he said.

The council, he said, was seeking legal advice and would be consulting with the National Roads Authority before making another submission to Bord Pleanála.

Mr O’Sullivan also said a similar road project had been approved in Donegal.

The planned upgrade of 28km of the N86 between Dingle and Camp, including Annascaul and Gortbreagoge, is one of a handful of projects planned for national secondary tourist routes along the western seaboard.