Departmental Funding

Wednesday, 11 February 2026

Questions (12, 13)

Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh

Question:

12. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport if any funding has been formally approved for the second Newbridge bridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10969/26]

View answer

Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh

Question:

13. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the second Newbridge bridge project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10970/26]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 13 together.

In 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.

Any new road projects that seek State funding are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines (formerly the Public Spending Code) and the Department's Transport Appraisal Framework. Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind.

Kildare County Council submitted a preliminary appraisal application in late 2023 to the Department of Transport. It was noted to the Council that the project would require a business case to be developed in order for the Council to substantiate the need for the scheme that addresses the transport issues or opportunities and provides value for money. The Department made an allocation to the Council in 2025 in support of the preparation of a business case for the remaining section of the Newbridge Southern Outer Orbital Route. The updated business case was submitted by the Council to the Department for review in mid-2025. Following the review, the business case was approved by the Department. The Department understands that Kildare County Council obtained planning approval for the remaining section of the scheme in 2023 and the Council are currently in advanced discussions with landowners regarding land acquisition.

It is expected that the Regional and Local Road 2026 Allocations will be announced in the near future.

Question No. 13 answered with Question No. 12.