Fine Gael Kildare South Martin Heydon TD has today (Friday) said that the planned upgrade works to the M7 which will see a third lane added from Junction 9 Naas North to the M9 intersection is needed now more than ever as traffic volumes continue to increase.
“I have sought updates on progress on the M7 Upgrade from Minister Shane Ross, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Kildare County Council. The upgrade project which will add a third lane on the M7 is at an advanced stage of tendering for main contractors. I have been advised that expressions of interest have been received by KCC from 8 contractors and these are currently being shortlisted to 5.
“It is expected that the procurement process will be completed by Spring 2017 when a preferred contactor will be selected. Preparatory works have been going ahead as the recent resurfacing and reinforcement works on the hard shoulder have been completed to ensure the hard shoulders can adequately take increased traffic when the main works start next year.
“Given the continued increased volumes of traffic on the route I am continuing to keep this project as a priority to ensure it is completed as soon as possible.”