Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 November 2012
676. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if funding will be approved for a bridge (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49423/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads in its area, is a statutory function of each road authority in accordance with the provisions of section 13 of the Roads Act, 1993. Works on such roads are a matter for the relevant local authority to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
On foot of an application from Westmeath County Council, I recently approved an allocation of approximately €3 million in 2013, 2014 and 2015 towards the construction costs of the Garrycastle Bridge Scheme. This scheme is located at Garrycastle, Athlone, Co Westmeath, and consists of approximately 700 meters of new single carriageway road along the R916. The scheme will cross the railway line from Mullingar to Athlone with a new bridge being built over the railway. The scheme will also include the provision of new cycleways, footpaths and lighting along the proposed road.
This allocation will allow for the construction work on this scheme to proceed, with construction expected to take approximately 12 months. I understand Westmeath County Council has allocated €649,000 towards the project costs in 2013. My Department has contributed almost €3 million to date towards the land purchase and design costs of this project.
I am pleased to announce funding for this scheme which will provide enhanced access between the Blyry Industrial Estate and Garrycastle Estate. It will also provide safe access for large residential areas to use the route and remove a dangerous bridge. This will complete the upgrade work along the R916.
