Kildare second bridge plans welcomed but calls for clarity on timeline
Cllr Chris Pender (SD) has welcomed a tender for the Newbridge Southern Ring Road and Second Bridge
Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender has welcomed the publication of the construction tender for the Newbridge Southern Ring Road and Second Bridge, describing it as an important milestone for a project the town has waited decades to see delivered.
Kildare County Council formally published the tender on October 30, following the announcement of €20 million in government funding earlier this year.
The project includes approximately 790 metres of new road, incorporating a five-span bridge measuring approximately 170 metres across the River Liffey. It also includes connections to the existing road network, drainage, public lighting and underground utilities.Illustrative drawings included in the tender documents also show proposed walking and cycling facilities, landscaping and riverside connections.
Cllr Pender said: "Newbridge has been waiting decades for this second bridge. We've hadyears of discussions, plans and announcements, so it's genuinely encouraging to see the project finally reach formal construction procurement. This is an important step forward, and I welcome it. But the next challenge is making sure it translates into construction on the ground."
The procurement will take place in two stages, with construction companies required to apply for consideration by 4pm on November 30.
The council is scheduled to issue invitations to five shortlisted contractors by January 14 2027.
Those contractors will then be invited to submit detailed construction tenders, which must be evaluated before a contract can be awarded.
The estimated construction contract is valued at €18 million, excluding VAT, with an anticipated construction period of 18 months. However, Cllr Pender has raised questions about an apparent inconsistency in the proposed construction timeline.
The Suitability Assessment Questionnaire identifies February 2027 as the anticipated commencement date, while the council previously indicated that construction was expected to begin in the third quarter of 2027, with completion in 2028.
"One thing that immediately stood out to me was the construction timeline. The tender documents suggest February 2027, but the council previously indicated the third quarter of next year.
"Given that contractors are only due to be invited to the second stage in January, I think it's reasonable to question whether February is achievable. I'll be seeking clarification on when the council realistically expects to appoint a contractor, when construction will actually begin, and whether the previously stated completion target remains achievable.
"People in Newbridge deserve a clear and realistic timetable. We've waited long enough without dates continuing to change."
Cllr Pender also stressed the importance of ensuring the completed project delivers improvements for pedestrians, cyclists and the surrounding communities.
"The second bridge is badly needed, but how we deliver it matters too. I want to see safe walking and cycling connections, proper environmental protections around the River Liffey, and clear arrangements for residents who may experience disruption during construction.
"The illustrative plans include some positive elements, and I'll be seeking assurances that these are carried through into the finished project."
Cllr Pender concluded: "I've consistently pushed for this project to progress because Newbridge needs the infrastructure. After decades of waiting, this is welcome progress. Now we need to see that progress continue through procurement and into construction.
"I'll keep pressing for answers and making sure the people of Newbridge are kept informed at every stage."