localnews.ie

Major traffic relief scheme for Julianstown in Meath moves forward

By Sylvia Omorodion, Independent.ie

A relief scheme planned for Meath has moved a step forward as Meath County Council progresses the Julianstown Traffic Relief Scheme to Phase 2 Option Selection.

The project — previously known as the Julianstown Bypass — is a joint initiative between Meath County Council and the Department of Transport aimed at tackling the excessive traffic volumes passing through the village.

The existing R132 carries more than 21,000 vehicles per day on average, causing chronic congestion, noise pollution and poor conditions for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users.

The council says the scheme is intended to deliver a “safer and enhanced environment” for the village.

At the December meeting of Laytown-Bettystown Municipal District, councillors were given an update on the scheme.

In September 2025, the Department of Transport approved the project to proceed to Phase 2 Option Selection. Key objectives for the scheme include reducing congestion, improving transport reliability, lowering the risk of road traffic accidents and mitigating noise pollution.

At the current stage, Meath County Council is examining the study area to identify possible solutions. Options under consideration may include a bypass, alongside traffic management and traffic-calming measures within Julianstown village.

A public consultation is expected for next year to help identify local constraints that should be taken into account when assessing potential options.