An East Clare Councillor believes a High Court decision paving the way for a bridge crossing in Killaloe-Ballina will receive a broad welcome locally.
The project, involving the construction of a 170 metre-long bridge over the river Shannon, has been subject to an ongoing legal battle since An Bord Pleanala granted permission for the works three years ago.
Peter Sweetman and an environmental protection company "The Swans and the Snails Ltd" objected that it would result in the destruction of a woodlands habitat and claimed that the planning authority failed to carry out an adequate assessment under the EU Habitats Directive.
Mr Justice Paul McDermott dismissed the challenge, saying he was satisfied the board received comprehensive technical and factual information in environmental impact and natura impact statements.
The project includes a new bypass and other roadworks in an effort to reduce traffic disruption in the twin towns and Fianna Fail's Tony O'Brien says it will be an important piece of infrastructure for East Clare.
