South Kildare route included in €4bn cash fund for roads

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross announced €4.26 billion in funding from 2018 to 2021.

Almost €500m in extra allocations were secured after a review process.

The Athy Southern Distributor Road is included among projects in the Capital Plan.

Planning permission was granted in October.

The next steps include preparatory works such as Compulsory Purchase Orders.

Minister Ross said extra funding ensures extra measures can now be implemented including the improved management of the M50 through the use of variable speed limits, reduced energy usage for route lighting and minor improvement works.

M7 motorway 

Construction has already started on the M7 Naas to Newbridge motorway widening, Sallins By-Pass and Osberstown Interchange scheme.