Transport | Traffic alleviation in Celbridge, Co. Kildare

To ask the Minister for Transport the extent to which measures to alleviate traffic congestion in Celbridge, County Kildare are in hand at present with particular reference to road and footpath realignment, extra or new bridges required, all of which are necessary to facilitate existing and future housing development; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for the policy and overall funding in relation to transport measures. In recent years we have seen a significant increase in Active Travel spending around the country which is aimed primarily at encouraging modal shift away from private cars and towards walking and cycling, ultimately resulting in an easing of traffic congestion among other aims. 

€289 million was allocated to the National Transport Authority (NTA) in 2022 to fund walking and cycling around the country, including over €13.5 million to Kildare County Council. The NTA works with the local authorities to determine funding for specific projects and oversees their development.

Noting the NTA’s role in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed reply in relation to planned works in Celbridge. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

I am writing to you concerning the matters you raised in Parliamentary Question No. 203 on 13 October last which has been referred to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for reply. I apologise for the delay in responding.
In response to your Parliamentary Question 203, it is the Local Authority that is largely responsible for traffic management/ road realignments/ bridges/ planned bridges and indeed footpath realignments. I would respectfully suggest contacting Kildare County Council to ascertain more details.