KILDARE: Mayor of Newbridge and Senator welcome latest second bridge update

The Mayor of Newbridge, as well as a Kildare-based Senator, have both welcomed the latest update surrounding the second bridge for Newbridge.

It was announced earlier today that Kildare County Council granted planning permission for the project, which is being led by developer Aston Limited.

The news was also welcomed earlier today by Fine Gael TD Martin Heydon.

Expressing similar sentiments to Deputy Heydon, Mayor Noel Heavey, who is a member of Fianna Fáil, said: "As Mayor of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal Area, I very much welcome the granting of full planning permission for the building of the 'second bridge' over the (River) Liffey, incorporating 790 metres of new road with modern sustainable transport cycle/ pedestrian ways linking Belin Woods with the road development of Great Connell as part of Southern Outer Orbital Relief Road.

"My immediate response to this much anticipated grant of planning permission is positive and welcome news for the people of our rapidly developing town of Newbridge. "

He added: "It’s my wish that KCC can now secure funding to proceed forthwith with construction.

"I wish to thank all the professionals of Aston Ltd who have worked fastidiously to bring this about."

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Mayor Heavey's party colleague, Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, also weighed in on the update.

She said that planning approval for a second bridge in Newbridge 'is an important milestone in the fight for a second bridge for Newbridge.'

The Senator continued: "I have called for a second bridge in Newbridge repeatedly since my election to the Oireachtas in 2016, and before that as a member of Kildare County Council.

"This issue has been knocked around for years and years and years. There is no doubt that it is time that this vital piece of infrastructure is delivered for the people of Newbridge.

"I have been liaising with the Minister for Local Government Darragh O’Brien TD and with Senior execs in Kildare County Council to ensure that National and Local Government are working in tandem to deliver this.”

"Today, planning was granted for the bridge, which is a significant and important milestone in our long fight for a second bridge.”

She continued: "Traffic and congestion is a major issue for everyone in Newbridge.

"Our road and bridge infrastructure is simply not fit for purpose.

"Everyday hundreds of commuters have to add at least 25 mins to their commute just to get through Newbridge.

"Its just not acceptable anymore and this project must be delivered."

Senator O'Loughlin concluded: "This new bridge which I have repeatedly called for, is not just for the benefit of Newbridge residents, although that is important, it is a vital aspect of the wider Newbridge South Orbital Relief Road (NSORR) project; a key infrastructural development for the whole county."