Kildare Senator Presses Housing Minister On Second Bridge For Newbridge

Monday, 11 July 2022 14:47

By Caoimhe Harney

The Senator claims it is a vital aspect of the wider Newbridge South Orbital Relief Road project.

A Kildare Senator has pressed the Minister for Local Government Darragh O’Brien TD for progress on the issue of a second bridge for Newbridge.

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O’Loughlin commented: "It is simply crazy that in 2022 that we are still relying on one bridge that leads you right through the centre of town causing absolute pandemonium at rush hour.

“There are over 1500 houses in the eight housing estates and one-off houses that all access the town via one bridge.

“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,” she insisted.

“I communicated the urgency of this project and I believe that we need to see The Department of local government and Kildare County Council need to work together in a close and collaborative manner to drive this project forward, and the Minister committed to this.

“The Minister understands the importance of this project and is committed to playing his part in ensuring the delivery of this bridge.

"His Department have had ongoing engagement with Kildare County Council and funding opportunities will reopen within the next 6 months.

“This is a key aspect of our development and we need the next funding application for this project to be successful next time around," she said.

"We simply cannot wait any longer, and I will continue to work with the Minister and Kildare County Council to drive this project forward," she added.