Major repair works are to be carried out on the Ardar Bridge in Co Offaly.

The bridge has been on the verge of collapse since 2007 and the Office of Public Works confirmed the procurement process to identify and engage with an appropriate contractor to undertake the site investigation is now complete.

Ministerial consent will be in place soon to progress with the project.

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Sinn Féin TD for the Offaly/ North Tipperary Deputy Nolan welcomed the news.

Deputy Nolan said: "I am pleased that the Office of Public Works is now looking at a more long term solution for the preservation of the bridge structure.

"I am also heartened by the Minsters' assertions that the project will be "concluded with a positive result for the Monument in terms of its future preservation".

"I will continue to engage with the Minister and the Office of Public Works on this issue to help ensure that the progress on this bridge continues at a timely pace."

(CD/MH)