A €30m bridge scheme in Sligo has been given planning permission.

The proposed Eastern Garvoge River Bridge will provide an eastern relief road which will reduce traffic congestion in the city centre.

It will provide a vital link with Sligo General Hospital and the city's educational hub at the Institute of Technology in Ballinode.

The bridge will improve traffic circulation on the eastern side of the river of the city and also facilitate the regeneration of the Cranmore/Cleveragh areas.

The approval of the Compulsory Purchase Order allows the local council to proceed with land acquisition.

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An Bord Pleanala attached some conditions to the planning permission.

The planning body said it should not adversely affect the integrity of the Lough Gill candidate Special Area of Conservation; or cause significant adverse effects on the environment and amenities in the area.

In particular the Bord omitted the noise barriers that were proposed by the council south of the river, in the Doorly Park, Martin Savage Terrace, Garavogue Villas, Hazel View, Crozon Promenade and Cranmore Road areas.

These proposed noise barriers were the subject of much controversy during the scheme's development.

The estimated cost of the scheme is approximately €30m.

Preliminary design and associated costs have been funded by the Department of Transport, at a value of €700,000.

When full finance is approved, the design stage would be completed in 18 months, and construction would take a further 18 months.

(PR/JM)