Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I think the rest of this response will answer some of the Deputy's questions. I thank him for his views on this matter, which is obviously a very important issue to the residents of Lehenaghmore Road and the wider community. The safety of road users, especially vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians, is paramount to the Department of the Minister, Deputy Ryan.

The Lehenaghmore improvement scheme is currently at detailed design and land acquisition stage. Cork City Council deemed it necessary to seek a compulsory purchase order to secure the required lands for the scheme as acquisition of these lands through agreement was not possible. An Bord Pleanála has set 22 May as the date for the compulsory purchase order oral hearing. The detailed design stage cannot be concluded without first securing the required lands. If the CPO is approved, the detailed design stage will be finalised and the proposed works will proceed to the construction tender and award stage. Construction is anticipated to commence thereafter. The 2024 funding provision for the Lehenaghmore Road improvement scheme aims to cater for all costs arising in 2024, with subsequent funding to be provided in subsequent years. That may answer the Deputy's question on funding. An Bord Pleanála has set 22 May as the oral hearing for the compulsory purchase order. I hope that will now get movement on that scheme and people will be able to walk in safety, especially older and young people, when trying to access the various roads in that particular area.

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