The scheme involves six new structures, including the two bridges over the River Liffey, a bridge over the Grand Canal, the new Osberstown Interchange bridge over the M7 motorway and a minor road bridge carrying Osberstown Road over the Sallins Bypass. The Sallins Bypass bridge under the main Dublin Cork railway line will be constructed by Irish Rail under a separate contract.

Atkins’ role is to deliver the next stage of the project up to the appointment of a contractor.

Atkins technical director Richard Neuling said: “I am delighted that Atkins has been successful in securing this commission from Kildare County Council. The section of the M7 Motorway from its interchange with the M9 extending towards Dublin is one of the most important and busiest routes in Ireland. The motorway upgrade and associated new Osberstown Interchange and Sallins Bypass will relieve traffic congestion, improve safety and benefit the environment.”

The work will be carried out in partnership with Kildare County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport.

Construction is expected to begin in early to mid-2017 and to be completed by the end of 2019.