Minister Dempsey opens new Arklow/Gorey Bypass

Date: 13 September 2007

The Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey T.D., today (Thursday 13th September 2007) officially opened the new N11 Arklow/Gorey bypass ahead of schedule.

The new bypass is part of the southern road corridor between Dublin and Wexford which is being upgraded under the Government’s Transport 21 investment programme. It will replace the existing N11 national route between Clogh and Arklow and will remove in excess of 10,000 vehicles each day from Gorey town and the villages of Inch and Clogh.

Speaking in Gorey today, Minister Dempsey said: “The opening of the Gorey bypass today symbolises exactly what Transport 21 is all about - transformation, improvement and achievement. The bypass is an example of first class transport infrastructure that will deliver real and immediate benefits to the people of Gorey and beyond. Gorey town and the villages of Inch and Clogh will now be less congested and safer places to live as over 10,000 vehicles will be removed from its streets each day. The bypass also means that up to 12 minutes will be shaved off peak time journeys which is very welcome news for local commuters.”

Minister Dempsey added “The economic dividend of the bypass will be significant as it will make a vital contribution towards the continued prosperity of the region. It will help deliver improved regional access and it will make a significant contribution to road safety in the area. The bypass has been built ahead of schedule and on budget. This Government is committed to transforming Ireland’s transport infrastructure to facilitate business and tourism in the region while also making our roads safer and less congested.”

Speaking at the opening in Gorey today Mr Peter Malone, Chairman of the National Roads Authority, said: “High quality infrastructure is critical if Ireland is to maintain its competitiveness on the world stage. Last year alone over 300 million tonnes of goods were transported by road. Journeys of over 150km accounted for 50% of this activity. This highlights the importance of effective and safe access to our ports especially along the Eastern Sea Board where the bulk of this activity occurs. Today’s road opening demonstrates the NRA’s commitment to the delivery of major schemes along this corridor on time and on budget. This ensures value for the Irish taxpayer while protecting the viability of the region’s commercial and tourism sectors. “

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