Minister for Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, has visited Waterford's North Quays SDZ site to view the infrastructure progress.

With substantial progress made on-site, Minister Ryan viewed the multi-modal access routes, a public transport hub and a sustainable transport bridge. This state-of-the-art hub, a first of its kind in Ireland, will position Waterford as a leader in integrated and sustainable urban transportation infrastructure.

The public infrastructure works are funded with a public investment of €207 million, including €100.6 million of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) funding and a further €70 million from Minister Ryan’s Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).

The sustainable transport bridge will link the reallocated train station to new walking and cycling infrastructure. These works will reduce the reliance on private car and facilitate alternative modes of transport for those accessing the city centre through the delivery of enhanced and integrated sustainable and active travel infrastructure.

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Minister Ryan TD stated: "I was in Waterford for the ground-breaking ceremony for the North Quays in March of last year. The scale of the works and the progression of the project in such a short time is to be commended. This development, one of the largest of all 35 Pathfinder Projects to deliver sustainable mobility and public transport projects, is transformational for Waterford and the surrounding areas, fulfilling the vision of delivering a sustainable, attractive and liveable city that builds on Waterford’s reputation as the Best Place to Live."

The completed infrastructure, including the newly finished foul and stormwater pumping stations in Ferrybank, will facilitate the commercial development at the SDZ Site by Harcourt Developments. This includes plans for offices, residential areas, retail spaces, accommodations and tourism investments, including conference and exhibition facilities, a 4-star hotel, and a visitor centre. All developments will prioritise sustainability, high quality and climate resilience.

The Minister met with Michael Walsh, on the last day of his term as Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council, Paul Johnston Acting Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council, Grace O'Sullivan MEP, Oireachtas members Marc Ó Cathasaigh TD, Mary Butler TD and Senator John Cummins, along with Councillors Cristíona Kiely and Jody Power.

Welcoming the Minister, Michael Walsh said: "The progress of this publicly funded project is evident. This development has sent a ripple of excitement through Waterford and the region. The end result will not only be transformative for Waterford and the region, but it will also give connectivity and balance to the city, as both sides of the river Suir will be optimised in terms of energy, community spirit and commercial activity."

Image Credit: Patrick Browne