‘Significant and welcome step forward’: Kilkenny TD praises new Ring Road funding
The update was detailed in a response by the Minister for Transport
Carlow/Kilkenny TD John McGuiness expressed satisfaction following an update and allocation of €200,000 for the Kilkenny Northern Transport Project, formerly known as the Northern Ring Road extension.
In a response to a parliamentary question submitted by Deputy McGuinness, Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien TD confirmed that an allocation had been secured to move the project on to the ‘Options Stage’ of development.
Deputy McGuinness said: “I sought a clear update from the Minister to cut through the delays and provide certainty for Kilkenny. This reply is a significant and welcome step forward.”
“It confirms that the project is very much alive, is being prioritised and that funding is being allocated to ensure it moves to the next critical stage,” he added.
The reply from the Minister outlined how the project is actively progressing through the required appraisal stages with collaboration between the Department of Transport and Kilkenny County Council.
Deputy McGuinness concluded by committing to see the project through to completion saying: “While I had called for a multi-annual funding commitment, this announcement is a very positive and necessary step in the right direction”.
“I will continue to work with Minister O’Brien and Kilkenny County Council, using every available means, to ensure that the Kilkenny Northern Transport Project continues to receive the political and financial support it requires to alleviate traffic congestion and support the future growth of our city”.