Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 July 2025
393. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider additional funding allocations in 2025 for local authorities looking to complete bridge rehabilitation works, but were not successful in allocations made earlier this year; when the next round for applications will open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40915/25]
View answerIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
My Department provides grant assistance to local authorities under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme for a number of targeted programmes, including the Bridge Rehabilitation Programme. Applications are sought each year from local authorities under this programme for consideration for funding in the subsequent year. Councils are made aware of this and are asked to submit applications in order of priority.
Applications will again be sought later this year for funding of bridge rehabilitation works on regional and local roads to be carried out by local authorities during 2026. The deadline for submission of applications for 2026 will be notified to local authorities in the circular which will be issued later this year.
