Laois plan unveiled for new phase of Portlaoise Triogue Way

Laois County Council is unveiling plans for the latest expansion of the major environmental activity amenity through the heart of Portlaoise along the River Triogue.

County Hall says it is part of the construction of a shared, pedestrian and cycle route from The People’s Park off Timahoe Road to Green Mill Lane, off the Ridge Road.

 “The proposed development forms a key element of the Triogue Way, a key intervention to support a low-carbon town. The nature of the works is similar to that previously provided from Summerhill to the People’s Park. 

“The principal aim of the proposed development is to support and promote more sustainable forms of transport and to enhance permeability and accessibility in and around Portlaoise Town Centre.

“Road safety is enhanced as the proposed development is largely off-road. The proposed development is specifically targeted to support and promote a safe cycling and walking culture in the urban environment whilst also enabling enhanced use of existing, local amenities,” says the local authority.

The council has invited views from the public of the latest phase of the project which could prove more challenging than phase one through the People's Park.

Phase two will traverse through lands that were owned by Portlaoise Parish and Presentation Convent.

 This property is now earmarked for two developments.

Graham Developments are planning a project on part of the land behind the Portlaoise House.

Sophia Housing is undertaking a €26 million social housing development on property that includes the vacant schools and convent building.

The  Triogue Way emerged from a plan for Portlaoise published in May 2017. The 2040 Vison for Portlaoise listed the project as an intervention. It said that opening up the Triogue as a linear park through the town was raised in the public consultation workshops as a desirable outcome for the people of Portlaoise.

 The first phase of the Triogue Way was officially opened in 2022 for €650,000. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

The plans will be published at https://consult.laois.ie

Submissions or observations concerning the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development is to be situated, may be made online at https://consult.laois.ie before 5pm on February 23.