Vital transport link for east Offaly edges closer

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has confirmed that the highly anticipated bus route connecting Mullingar to Kildare Village via East Offaly is at an advanced stage of procurement.

The new service, which is set to operate seven days a week with up to six return journeys daily, will provide a vital transport link for communities in Edenderry, Clonbullogue and Bracknagh, as well as connecting them to hubs including Mullingar, Kinnegad, Portarlington, Monasterevin and Kildare Village.

Following a direct enquiry at a recent briefing for Oireachtas members and a follow-up parliamentary question, Deputy John Clendennen was informed that the Department of Transport and the NTA are at an advanced stage of procurement for the route, with the final commencement date subject to the confirmation of funding of the PSO (Public Service Obligation) programme.

Speaking on the update, Deputy Clendennen said: “The introduction of route 826 will be a game-changer for East Offaly. This route will not only connect our local villages but will provide essential access to employment, education and retail hubs in Mullingar and Kildare. While it is encouraging to see that the NTA is at an advanced stage of procurement, the lack of a firm commencement date is something that I am monitoring closely. I will continue to engage with the Minister for Transport and the NTA to ensure funding is confirmed and the route commenced as soon as possible.”

The service will be operated by the Local Link Laois-Offaly, an organisation with a proven track record for delivering rural transport.

Deputy Clendennen said the proposed seven-day timetable will meet the needs of commuters, as well as those looking to access local services throughout the week.

“My priority is to see this route operational. While this route will be of great practical benefit, it is more than just a bus route, this is about keeping our rural communities connected,” he said.