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The Tara Road (Bóthar na Teamhrach, R150) was officially opened in September 2021 and serves as an alternative route between Laytown and Bettystown. It is one kilometre long and intersected by three roundabouts.
It was named Tara Road in recognition of the area’s connection to the Tara Brooch which was found in East Meath in 1850 and is now on display in the National Museum of Ireland (Archaeology section) on Kildare Street, Dublin. The symbol of the Tara Brooch is also featured on the Bettystown Tidy Towns (BTT) logo.
The road features cycling lanes and walking infrastructure with plenty of greenery while also providing access to different facilities as well as supporting biodiversity. Among the facilities are: Colaiste na hInse, a post primary school; Scoil Olibhéar; Naofa, junior primary school; Laytown Bettystown Youthreach; Drogheda Institute of Further Education (DIFE); various shopping facilities and eateries.
The work on the Tara Road was recognised at Meath County Council’s Pride of Place awards where Bettystown Tidy Towns won for best Green Kilometre in 2025.
Native trees & Biodiversity
Native trees & Biodiversity
BTT have planted 120 native Irish trees along the road. Species include Sorbus Aria Majestica, Sorbus Aria magnifica, Sorbus aucuparia and crab apple. The roundabouts are home to carpinus fastigata trees, and pollinator-friendly plants including hebes, lavender, miscanthus, carex oshimensis intense green and hakonechloa macra aureola.
Trees provide a number of benefits:
Environmental protection by removing pollutants like nitrogen oxides, ammonia, and sulfur dioxide from the air. They are essential for carbon sequestration which mitigates the impacts of climate change.
Temperature control and energy savings by providing shade and releasing water vapor. Strategically planted trees can reduce air conditioning needs by up to 50%.
Water management once their root systems reduce runoff, prevent soil erosion and decrease the risk of flooding by capturing water.
Biodiversity and wildlife by providing food and shelter for various animals, insects and birds.
Health and well-being by providing green spaces, linked to reduced stress, improved mental health and better physical health for children and adults.
Art installation
Art installation
BTT commissioned a piece of artwork for the roundabout at the north end of the Tara Road. The project started in January 2020 and was unveiled in August 2022. The sculpture was selected as part of a tender process with ten artists competing for the commission.
The contract was awarded to world-renowned artist, Linda Brunker, an Irish artist with several high-profile public sculptures on display around the world. Her piece in Bettystown, named “Splash”, is an endearing reference to a lively coastal village that is full of life and energy.
The artwork depicts two children playing in the sea. The stone base of the sculpture and the grass planted around it are a reference to the marram grass growing in the dunes along the Bettystown coast. At night, lights installed in the base illuminate the statue.
Linda Brunker building the sculpture
"Splash"
You’re more than welcome to join and support us in our work to make the community thrive. Please contact us at bettystowntidytowns@gmail.com or via Social Media channels.
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