Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 April 2025
54. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to provide an update on the proposed walking and cycling bridge across the River Liffey from the War Memorial Gardens, Islandbridge to the Phoenix Park; the proposed timeline for works to commence; what funding is provided for this in 2025 and 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21669/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works has received tenders for the construction of the new commemorative bridge and entrance plaza at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens and Conyngham Road.
The proposed works for the Commemorative Bridge comprises of the following:
• A new pedestrian and cycle bridge which will span the River Liffey and connect to an existing cycle way running along Chapelizod Road;
• A formal entrance at Chapelizod Road;
• An open plaza linking the entrance and bridge, to be located at the War Memorial Gardens and at lands to north of River Liffey, Chapelizod Road, Islandbridge, Dublin 8. In order to ensure the safe passage of pedestrians and cyclists across the Chapelizod Road to and from the proposed open plaza, a new pedestrian crossing will be required. The Irish National War Memorial Gardens are located at a place of great historical, cultural and geographic importance.
The procurement process to identify a contractor is nearing completion. It is anticipated, subject to necessary approvals, that the contract for the construction of the bridge will be placed in May 2025.
The OPW will be funding this project with a 30% contribution of the total funding in principal from the National Transport Authority. It is expected 40% of the project payments will be made in 2025, 50% in 2026 with 10% final payment in 2027 once the one year defect period is complete.
