Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party)
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200. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the proposed bridge across the River Liffey at the War Memorial Gardens; the timeline for construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41094/23]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Office of Public Works continues to work with consultants, Ian Ritchie Architects, to complete the necessary documentation to submit a planning application for a new commemorative bridge and entrance plaza at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens and Conyngham Road.

Due to the environmental sensitivities of the location, an extensive Flood Risk Assessment and Section 50 Application is currently being carried out by consultants for the OPW.

All other baseline studies have been completed including the Feasibility Study, Ecological studies and a Business Development Strategy.

Funding has been approved to planning permission stage and approximately €100,000 has been spent on design consultant costs, along with the survey reports required for the planning application. A further €700,000 is allocated for projected works to bring this to planning.

It is anticipated that the OPW will tender for the construction works later in 2024.

It should be noted that Dublin City Council amended the local area plan for Inchicore to allow for development of this piece of infrastructure and the project is widely supported by local elected representatives, community, stakeholders and the general public.

Subject to further availability of funding, a full procurement process will be undertaken and it is hoped that works will commence on site before the end of 2024.