Donegal Town roundabout could be set to feature ‘really iconic’ artwork

The roundabout at Drumlonagher, Donegal Town is one of the biggest in the county, and could be greatly enhanced by a statement sculpture, according to Cllr Niamh Kennedy (Ind).

The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council was speaking at the July meeting of the Municipal District (MD) of Donegal. The meeting was held in the Peter Kennedy Chamber of the Donegal Public Services Centre which overlooks the expansive roundabout.

“We have those lovely structures on the roundabouts in Bundoran now,” said Cllr Kennedy. “It is disappointing that there is nothing in Donegal Town,

“There should be a structure here on the Drumlonagher Roundabout. It is a big enough roundabout that could take something really iconic and really nice.”

The councillor said she was unsure if this came under the remit of the Roads or Tourism section.

Director Designate of Donegal MD Garry Martin explained that the Bundoran roundabout art was part of a collaboration involving a number of bodies, including Tourism and Roads, with around 10 years planning. 

He was supportive of Cllr Kennedy’s suggestion, saying: “We can start to explore it.

“Though I am mindful that this particular roundabout has more than its fair share of people driving over the top of it.”

Cllr Micheál Naughton (FF) also supported the idea, adding: “All three roundabouts would be good.”

Cathaoirleach of Donegal MD, Cllr Noel Jordan (SF) asked how come public art of that nature had not been provided for when the Donegal Town bypass was built.

Area Roads Officer Mark Sweeney replied that the public art had been provided for in that project, and that it was the picnic area and sculpture near Lidl. 

Regarding artwork at the Drumlonagher Roundabout and other roundabouts in the town, Mr Sweeney said: “Yes, I would love to do something with them. It is a matter of trying to get funding. It was tourism funding in Bundoran.”

Regarding the number of people who have driven onto the Drumlonagher Roundabout, he said: “I have a theory that if there is something in the middle of the roundabout, it helps people to be aware of it and not drive over the top of it.”