THE National Roads Authority (NRA) are to publish the Compulsory Purchase Order for the Slane bypass this week.

'I am delighted that approval has just been granted by the NRA to publish the CPO,' stated local deputy, Thomas Byrne.

'This is part of the preliminary design phase and means that the project can now move forward to the next stage of the process. Notices will be sent to affected landowners and written submissions will be invited from the public concerning the CPO.'

Councillor Wayne Harding is also welcoming the news.

'It is fantastic that the Slane bypass project has now moved to this stage of the planning process. The people of Slane have waited a long time to get their bypass and it is now at a stage that it's never been at before. I am truly delighted with the urgency that the NRA are finally showing in relation to this important project.'

'As we all know, road safety will greatly improve with the delivery of the Bypass and Slane village will also be better positioned to maximise its huge tourist and cultural potential.

'I have raised the issue of the Slane bypass in the Dail on a number of occasions and it's delivery was one of my election priorities.

'Both Councillor Wayne Harding and I will keep pushing hard for the swift delivery of this Bypass for Slane residents' continued Byrne.

The main issue for the local residents will now be the timeframe for works to starts on the longawaited project.

'The start date for construction will of course depend on the granting of planning approval for the project. I will continue to exert as much pressure as I possibly can to get the job under way as soon as possible,' concluded the local Fianna Fail TD.