Monaghan County Council, in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), is moving forward with the N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme, following the completion of its ‘Initial Design’ and the planned publication of an ‘Updated Design’ later this month.
The project proposes to upgrade approximately 28 kilometres of the N2 between Clontibret and the Border, replacing the existing route with a new dual carriageway road. The improved road will bypass Monaghan Town, Emyvale, and Corracrin, easing congestion and improving safety for all road users. The scheme is also designed to improve journey time reliability, enhance regional connectivity and support economic development across Monaghan and the wider northwest region.
In addition to road improvements, the scheme includes proposals for new and upgraded walking and cycling facilities along the route of the existing N2, which is due to be bypassed by the new road. These will improve access to local amenities such as the Ulster Canal Greenway and contribute to national climate and active travel targets.
Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, stated ‘The N2 Clontibret to Border Road Scheme is a vital investment for County Monaghan and the northwest region. It will enhance safety, reduce travel times, improve regional connectivity, and support important economic and environmental improvements. We are working with neighbouring local authorities, north and south of the border, to ensure this forms part of a cohesive, modern transport corridor.’
The ‘Initial Design’ was published in April of this year, when directly affected landowners were invited to meetings with the N2 project team to hear first hand how they would be affected by the planned road. A further three public information days were held in communities along the route, and all three events saw a strong turnout and engagement from the community. A substantial volume of feedback was received, and this feedback has been carefully reviewed by the N2 Project Team. Where feasible, amendments have been incorporated into an ‘Updated Design’, taking into account technical and environmental constraints. While all comments were considered, it has not been possible to accommodate every request.
Following this review, an ‘Updated Design’ will be published on Friday, 21st November 2025 on the project website www.N2MonaghanLouth.ie. It will include the proposed route, locations of junctions and interchanges, details of sideroads and access roads, and an updated indicative Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) boundary.
Three Public Information Days will follow:
- Thursday 27th November 2025, 3pm – 8pm, Clontibret Community Centre
- Wednesday 3rd December 2025, 3pm – 8pm, Tyholland Community Centre
- Thursday 4th December 2025, 3pm – 8pm, Emyvale Recreation Centre
These are walk-in events, and members of the N2 Project Team will be available to discuss the design and answer questions. Cathaoirleach Cllr P. J. O’Hanlon noted ‘The publication of this updated design demonstrates progress on this important road scheme. The new road is much needed for Monaghan and the region. It will not only deliver essential infrastructure, but will also create opportunities for better active travel, safer communities and stronger local connectivity. I would encourage all landowners and residents to review the Updated Design, attend the upcoming public information events and engage with the project team.’
