N3 road - Definition

The N3 road is a National Primary Route in the Republic of Ireland, running from Dublin to Cavan Town and the border area of Ireland. Roads in Northern Ireland form part of an overall route connecting to Enniskillen, and northwest to the border again where the N3 reappears to serve Ballyshannon in County Donegal.

The route is known as the Navan Road as it leaves Dublin bypassing Castleknock and Blanchardstown with dual carriageway. From the outskirts of the city, the road passes by Clonee, Dunshaughlin, Navan and Kells in County Meath, before reaching Cavan Town. From there the route crosses the border with Northern Ireland, becoming the A509 to Enniskillen. The A49 road leads away from Enniskillen, becoming the N3 across the border, and connecting to Ballyshannon.

Part of the overall route is due to be bypassed, becoming the M3 motorway. As of 2004 this plan is contended, as it passes by the Hill of Tara, and through the archaeologically rich Tara-Skyne valley. Objectors say the motorway will irreparably damage the region's heritage. The National Roads Authority (NRA) and others (such as local business groups) insist that the route preferred by an environmental impact assessment does not pass close enough to the towns in the area.