AN APPLICATION FOR judicial review is expected to be lodged against Slane bypass in Co Meath, which officially received planning permission in July, 12 years after it was first rejected.

The N2 Slane bypass would create a 3.5km dual carriageway in Slane, a combined footway/cycleway, and a 258-metre-long bridge.

The project would also develop Slane village and improve traffic management on the N51 between the proposed bypass and the centre of the village.

Speaking to The Journal, Meath Council Council confirmed that an application for judicial review against the project is expected.

A spokesperson said: “Meath County Council has received confirmation that a member of the public intends to lodge a judicial review.”

The spokesperson had no further comment on the ongoing matter.

Plans for a Slane bypass have been in the pipeline for years.

In 2012, An Bord Pleanála refused planning permission for a bypass, saying at the time that the road would be located close to the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage.

When planning permission was granted in July, Meath County Council Cathaoirleach Wayne Harding said the project would “address the transport needs of residents, businesses and visitors in the village of Slane and in the wider strategic road network within the vicinity”.

“Aside from significantly improving road safety in the area, this scheme will remove the bottleneck in the village, reducing traffic congestion and moving more heavy goods vehicles out of Slane, making the air much cleaner for all residents,” he said.

With additional reporting from Lauren Boland