Additional funding support of €25,766,721 has been allocated to assist the repair of regional and local roads in Tipperary, while Cork County Council will receive a 14.5% increase in their roads budget this year, having been allocated €50.5 million.
Limerick will receive €26.2 million in road funding with Waterford set to be boosted by €14,327,975 in support. There is also provision for 270 bridge rehabilitation schemes and 240 safety improvement projects to be carried out including Ardfinnan Bridge and Clionbeg Bridge in County Tipperary.
Recent extreme weather events have had a major impact on the regional and local road network and this funding will see essential maintenance and improvements carried out.
Fine Gael candidate for Tipperary Garret Ahearn, welcomed the news and stated that these events, combined with the extended period of reduced funding for road maintenance following the economic downturn, have left the road network much more vulnerable to damage.
“I know this funding will greatly assist in the repairs and ensure our road network Tipperary is of the highest standard,” said Mr Ahern.
YEAR ON YEAR BUDGET INCREASE
Speaking upon confirmation of the budget, Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice & Equality David Stanton, said the Government is determined to support the continued growth in the economy in the years to come by maintaining and renewing existing infrastructure, reflected in a 16% year on year increase in the Department of Transport’s roads budget to €483 million.
Limerick Minister, Patrick O’Donovan TD said he worked with all of his Government colleagues to ensure the maximum amount of funding for Limerick and the funding will see essential maintenance and improvements carried out.
REHABILITATION WORKS
In West Waterford, €72,000 has been allocated for rehabilitation works to Camphire Bridge L1016, €15,000 for Knocknagappul Bridge R666, €15,000 for Drohidcamaun East Bridge R669 and €55,000 for safety improvements at the junction of Regional Road R668 with Regional Road R669, known as Boggaghbaun.
