BREAKING: Planning permission granted for second bridge in Newbridge, County Kildare

The green light has been given for a long-awaited second bridge to be constructed over the River Liffey in Newbridge.

Back in October of 2022, it was estimated by Kildare County Council (KCC) officials in October that a second bridge — which would dramatically ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity — could cost more than €6 million to build.

Despite this, a number of local politicians welcomed the prospect of the new bridge for Newbridge.

Now, Fine Gael TD for Kildare South, Martin Heydon, has welcomed KCC's decision to grant permission for the second bridge.

Deputy Heydon previously said in 2021 that he had held talks with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O'Brien TD, on a proposed new bridge for Newbridge, which missed out on vital Government funding at the time.

Commenting on the most recent news, Deputy Heydon said: "The granting of planning permission is an important step forward in the process of us improving traffic flows in the town and realising the significant economic development potential of the Great Connell area north of the river Liffey.

Fine Gael TD for Kildare South, Martin Heydon. The current bridge in Newbridge can be seen in the background. Photo supplied by Deputy Heydon.

"The granting of permission by Kildare County Council to Aston Limited for a five span bridge of 170m in length along with 790m of a distributor road creates great momentum for its delivery considering that a number of other important developments in the area are still awaiting decision from An Bord Pleanála."

He continued: "In addition to the bridge and distributor road, permission has also been granted for a proposed River Park of approximately 9.2 hectares as a multi-use recreational amenity, including pedestrian and cycle routes connecting to existing public space network, and a multi-use games area.  

"The next steps in this project will be for Kildare County Council to engage with the developer who have been granted the permission. 

"Work can then proceed on the detailed design for the bridge as funding options are also considered."

Deputy Heydon concluded his statement by saying: "This is one of the key investments and pieces of infrastructure needed to support the continued development of the town of Newbridge and I am delighted that today it moves forward with this important step."

When asked by the Leinster Leader, KCC confirmed that planning permission has been granted for a second bridge in Newbridge.