Louth County Council criticised for not utilising bus stop funding

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

Louth County Council have come in for criticism over the failure to spend a €500,000 fund for new bus stops and shelters across the county in 2025.

Cllr. Declan Power sought an update on the Bus Stop Enhancement programme at the January meeting of Louth County Council.

"In 2025, I think funding of half a million euro was made available to all local authorities across the state, with full support from the National Transport Authority,” he said.

He understood that Louth County Council “didn’t spend any of the funding” and asked why this was the case.

"There is obviously a great demand for bus stops and bus shelters,” said Cllr. Power.

David Hanratty, Director of Services, told the meeting that design guidance from the department did not come through, so the council did not have the specification to build the bus stops.

He added that they do intend to advance the programme this year.

Senior Engineer, Mark Johnston, said a new supplier of bus shelters has been appointed, so the money awarded last year can be used to progress the programme with the new specifications.

Councillor Ejiro O'Hare Stratton said that bus shelters were desperately needed for anyone who had an appointment, was visiting or working at Our Lady of Lourdes hospital in Drogheda.

Cllr. Robert Nash said he understood the reasons why the funds weren’t spent, but highlighted a growth in bus services in Dundalk, with an 11.30pm town service now operational.

But he warned that passengers are “taking their lives into their own hands” in parts of the town including Quay Street, Barrack Street and Bay Estate. Bus shelters were really needed in these areas, he added.

Speaking following the meeting, Cllr. Power said: “It is extremely disappointing to learn that in 2025, Louth County Council failed to spend NTA funding that is specifically ring-fenced for bus shelters and bus stop enhancements. The NTA allocates approximately half a million euro annually to each local authority for this purpose, and in Louth not a cent of it was spent. That is simply not good enough. If design specifications was a problem why wasn't pressure put on NTA to present designs. What was wrong with the existing designs”

Cllr. Power stressed that this funding is essential for everyday commuters, students and vulnerable passengers who are currently left waiting in poor conditions.

“This is funding is badly needed. We have students, elderly people, people commuting to work, standing on the side of roads in the rain and cold with no shelter and, in many cases, no proper bus stop. When funding like this is available, it should be treated as a priority. This is money for jam and someone dropped the ball.”

While critical of the delay, Cllr. Power welcomed confirmation that a clear plan will now be put in place for 2026.

“I have received assurances that for 2026 there will be a structured plan in place and that any funding awarded by the NTA will be fully spent on delivering bus shelters and adequate bus stop infrastructure. That is welcome, but it must be followed through.”

He added that responsibility now rests with the local authority.

“The NTA has provided the funding and the necessary support. What Louth County Council must now do is identify suitable locations and engage with the relevant stakeholders over the coming weeks and months. This is not complex. It’s about planning, engagement and delivery and I will be holding the council accountable to ensure this happens.”

Cllr. Power said he will continue to monitor progress closely to ensure communities across County Louth finally see the improvements they have been waiting for.