PICTURED at the official opening of the Western Section of the Galway County Council scheme were Louis O'Hara TD, Liam Conneally, Chief Executive Galway County Council, Cathaoirleach of County Galway, Cllr. Andrew Reddington, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Sean Canney TD, Albert Dolan TD and Uinsinn Finn, Director of Services Galway County Council. Photo : Murtography

Latest section of Athenry ring road opens

Published: Tue 15 Sep 2026, 2:43 PM

THE new section of the Athenry Northern Ring Road between the Raheen Road and Presentation College has officially opened.

Junior Minister for Transport Sean Canney opened the western section of the route last Friday, which allows for a continuous route between the Tuam Road and the M6 motorway junction.

Minister Canney expressed delight on delivery of the second phase of the project and to have secured funding for a part of the next section.

“Improving connectivity while alleviating congestion in our urban centres is key to creating sustainable, safe, thriving and healthy communities,” said Minister Canney.

CATHAOIRLEACH of County Galway, Cllr. Andrew Reddington, Geraldine Canney, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Sean Canney TD, and Liam Conneally, Chief Executive, Galway County Council. Photo by Murtoqraphy

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council Cllr Andrew Reddington stressed that the road would help reduce traffic in the town.

“This project will help divert through traffic away from Athenry’s historic town centre, reducing congestion and improving the environment and safety for pedestrians and cyclists,” noted Cllr Reddington.

Galway County Council Chief Executive Liam Conneally highlighted that the project has been identified as key infrastructure for the future development of Athenry.

“It will improve access to lands zoned for residential, industrial, business and technology development,” he remarked.

When fully completed, the Athenry Northern Ring Road is expected to carry around 2,000 vehicles a day, taking through traffic away from the town centre.