Much Needed Improvements To Separate Sections Of The N81 Road Continue Apace

Phase 2 of the N81 Whitestown Lower and Hangman's Bend projects has been completed. The preferred options for the improvement schemes are now published and will be refined.

Ongoing road improvement works which aims to address road deficiencies adding to the poor road safety record on the N81 route are progressing according to local Wicklow county councillors.

The N81 Route Improvement Schemes, namely the N81 Whitestown Lower and N81 Hangman’s Bend and Tuckmill Projects are progressing in parallel, with the aim to improve the long-standing issues which are contributing to the prevailing and obvious dangerous conditions impacting many road-users lives for years in the Baltinglas local rea.  

Various options surveys have concluded with the confirmation of the preferred options to be brought forward to the design and environmental evaluation phase.

The Options Study Report and plan drawings of the preferred options are available on the project website, www.n81whitestownandtuckmill.ie.

The scheme aims to address road deficiencies contributing to the poor road safety record on the N81, such as poor road alignment, numerous junctions and accesses, and limited overtaking opportunities due to inadequate forward visibility and sightlines. 

The N81 Whitestown Lower project is approximately two kilometres long and extends from the Castleruddery Junction to the south to the Ballylion Junction to the north.

​​The N81 Hangman’s Bend Scheme and Tuckmill project is approximately four kilometres long and extends from Raheen Junction to the south to Hangman’s Bend to the north.

(Wicklow-CoCo) N81-Route-Improvement-Scheme

Once the preliminary designs are sufficiently advanced, landowners affected by the proposed road scheme will be consulted to understand their needs and concerns, and to develop design solutions that minimise disturbance where possible, particularly regarding access arrangements and accommodation works.

Cllr. Avril Cronin, Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District said the investment in the network is integral for local people:

“Wicklow County Council is committed to delivering safer, more reliable journeys for everyone who depends on the N81. The progression of these improvement schemes represents a significant investment in the well-being of our communities, enhancing road safety while supporting local connectivity and long-term regional development.”

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman says ongoing discussions with landowners is paramount towards finding solutions to previous problems:

“By addressing critical deficiencies on this key transport corridor, we are strengthening connections between communities, supporting sustainable growth, and ensuring the infrastructure can meet future demands. As the project progresses, we remain committed to constructive engagement with landowners and stakeholders to deliver a scheme that maximises public benefit and supports Wicklow’s continued development.”