Letterkenny earmarked for Town Bus Service in Budget 2027 - Donegal News

A TOWN Bus Service could be back on the cards for Letterkenny under Budget 2027.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) today put forward a proposal for a return of the service at the Oireachtas Transport Committee.

The news comes after Sinn Féin Cllr Gerry McMonagle called for an urgent meeting with the NTA on the issue at yesterday’s meeting of Letterkenny-Milford MD.

Welcoming the announcement, Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh said: “I am delighted that the NTA has confirmed it is proposing a town bus service for Letterkenny as part of the upcoming Budget.”

Cllr Kavanagh described a new town bus as “vital” for frequent users of the discontinued private service, particularly for elderly and disabled people.

“I am now calling on the Minister to provide the necessary funding to ensure this much-needed service becomes a reality,” he said.

“Together with Senator Manus Boyle, I have been working to secure a town bus service for Letterkenny, and it is vital that this proposal moves forward. With traffic congestion continuing to impact commuters, families, businesses, and visitors, a local bus service would provide an important alternative to car travel and help make getting around our town easier.”

“While a town bus service will not solve Letterkenny’s traffic challenges on its own, it will certainly help to reduce congestion, improve connectivity, and support more sustainable transport options.

“This is a significant step in the right direction, and I will continue working to ensure that Letterkenny gets the public transport investment it deserves.”

The previous town bus service ceased operation earlier this year.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Cllr McMonagle said it was “imperative” that a meeting be arranged with the NTA to reinstate the service.

Seconding the motion, Cllr Kavanagh compared Letterkenny to other towns including Sligo Ennis and Mullingar which all have local bus services as well railway stations.

Earlier this week, funding of €9 million was announced for the proposed Letterkenny Transport Hub under the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund.

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription. Any time | Any place | Anywhere