An Bórd Pleanála approved this roads scheme in December 2011 under section 51 of the Roads Act 1993. Following an application by Kilkenny County Council, and in consultation with the Director of the National Museum of Ireland, I issued directions to the Council on 5 June 2012 under section 14A of the National Monuments Acts 1930 (as amended) for the carrying out of works of an archaeological nature relating to the scheme. As required by my directions, a detailed architectural survey of Nos. 20-22 Vicar Street has been undertaken which has revealed no upstanding medieval fabric within the structures. The directions also require demolition works at Nos. 20-22 Vicar Street to be carried out under archaeological supervision followed by archaeological test excavations at the site. The results of the test excavations will inform any further archaeological investigations that may be needed prior to the commencement of the construction of the scheme.