Navan school set for safety upgrades, but construction funding still lacking
A national school in Meath has been included in An Taisce’s Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programme to improve road safety at a busy junction in Navan.
Safety improvements are planned for St Oliver Plunkett’s National School. Measures include a new controlled crossing on the Proudstown Road, upgrades to existing crossings at the Proudstown Road/Aisling Place junction, and other footpath enhancements serving the school.
The Active Travel Improvement Grants from the National Transport Authority (NTA) for 2026 include an allocation of €10,000 for this scheme, covering design development only.
It is intended that schools in the SRTS programme will receive funding from the NTA from 2027 onwards to allow construction of the measures.
The SRTS programme aims to provide safer walking and cycling routes to schools across the country, with upgrades such as controlled crossings and footpath improvements seen as key to protecting children and encouraging active travel.
The Proudstown Road has long been a focus of safety concerns. Last year, a separate “shovel-ready” project at the nearby Blackcastle junction was stalled after tenders came in significantly over budget, leaving the council to consider interim safety measures under an alternative scheme.
Aontú councillor Emer Tóibín said while planning for improvements is underway, the lack of immediate construction funding remains a concern.
“There is progress in terms of planning, but no commitment yet to deliver the actual safety works on the ground despite the clear need at this busy junction,” she said.