Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien officially opened the Birr Northern Distributor Scheme, Bóthar Na Laochra, yesterday (Monday).

Minister officially opens Birr Northern Distributor Scheme

Published: Tue 9 Jun 2026, 11:42 AM

Last updated: Tue 9 Jun 2026, 11:58 AM

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien officially opened the Birr Northern Distributor Scheme, Bóthar Na Laochra, yesterday (Monday).

The new route links the Tullamore Road (N52) at Woodlands to the Birr to Banagher Road (R439) at Cappaneale.

This scheme provides a strategically important new section of road and active travel infra-structure that will relieve congestion in Birr Town by providing an alternative to the existing route through the town, and assist in the decarbonisation of the town centre and further improve air quality.

This project was managed by the Roads and Transport Department of Offaly County Council and TOBIN Consulting Engineers under the guidance of Director of Services Tom Shanahan.

The Birr North Distributor Road scheme was primarily funded through Strategic Regional and Local Road Grants provided by the Department of Transport, with supportive administration and collaboration from Offaly County Council.

Delighted to officially open this important project in Offaly. It will make a real difference for local schools, improve safety for all road users and support active travel. Great to see continued investment in infrastructure that helps communities grow and plan for the future. pic.twitter.com/RS8penDLgr
— Darragh O'Brien (@DarraghOBrienTD) June 8, 2026