Press Release - Opening of M9  Motorway from Waterford to Knocktopher

M9  Motorway from Waterford to Knocktopher Now Open.

A new 24km section of the M9 from Waterford to Knocktopher was officially opened on 22nd March 2010 by Minister for Transport, Noel Dempsey T.D.

This new section of motorway allows for improved access to and from the city of Waterford via the new N25 Waterford City Bypass at the southern end of the scheme.  Additionally, this motorway bypasses the towns of Knocktopher, Ballyhale and Mullinavat alleviating the town centres from unnecessary through traffic.

The project came in on budget, but the schedule was delayed by a few months due to the inclement weather conditions during critical construction phases.  There is one final section of the new M9 between Knocktopher and Carlow to be completed and it is on schedule for opening by the end of 2010.

The Minister for Transport, Noel Dempsey T.D. said,"The opening of the M9 Waterford to Knocktopher motorway brings us one step closer to completion of the M9 major inter-urban route connecting Dublin and Waterford.  It will greatly improve the road safety, as well as enhance the quality of life for residents of Knocktopher, Mullinavat and Ballyhale by eliminating through traffic.

“Additionally, it will attract investment for the entire region as a result of linking directly to the recently opened N25 Waterford City Bypass. It will also improve the regional access to Kilkenny via the existing N10. The final section of the M9 inter-urban motorway, Knocktopher to Carlow, is on schedule for opening later this year and as a result will fulfil the goal of regional and national connectivity as outlined under Transport 21." 

Peter Malone, Chairman National Roads Authority stated   “The M9 Waterford to Knocktopher scheme is the third major section of the new road to open that will connect Waterford to Dublin via motorway standard.  As a result it will improve road safety, shorten journey times and afford both the Waterford and Kilkenny regions opportunities for increased inward investment and assist in attracting foreign investment. Additionally, the improved road network will aid tourists in accessing a full range of offerings from the Irish hospitality industry throughout the southeast.”