Cork South Central T.D. Michael McGrath has been informed in writing by the Chief Executive of the NRA that the authority expects to have sufficient funding in 2011 to proceed with the construction of the Bandon road and Sarsfield road flyovers as planned.

Deputy McGrath wrote to the NRA’s Chief Executive Mr. Fred Barry last month following media reports that the two flyovers were at risk due to funding constraints.

‘I am pleased that NRA remains committed to constructing these two flyovers on the southern ring road network. The Government has already indicated the overall capital budget for next year and the NRA is working on the basis of these figures. Mr. Barry’s reassurance regarding the project is therefore very encouraging.

‘The NRA went to tender for the construction of the two interchanges last April and will be in a position to appoint a contractor later this year once its budget for 2011 is confirmed.

‘These two interchanges will also make daily life so much easier for thousands of Cork commuters and will provide a real economic boost to the region.

‘I understand that the construction phase will take approx. 18 months to complete and I am looking forward to seeing progress on the ground over the months ahead,’ concluded Deputy McGrath.

Michael McGrath T.D.

NRA EXPECTS BANDON ROAD & SARSFIELD ROAD FLYOVERS TO PROCEED