Transport Minister Leo Varadkar said the Tralee bypass would boost safety for motorists

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar has turned the sod on the new N22/N69 Tralee bypass predicted to shave 12 minutes off peak-time journeys.

The 13.5km road, due to open in less than two years, includes a cycle track and 8km of dual carriageway.

Mr Varadkar said the scheme will help boost safety for motorists with a predicted 14% cut in accidents.

"Additionally, the Tralee Bypass will upgrade access to County Kerry and allow Tralee to benefit from the removal of unnecessary through traffic whilst improving the travel experience for tourists and businesses alike," the minister said.

The proposed N22/N69 Tralee Bypass Scheme is 13.5km in length and comprises two sections - the bypass section and the Tralee to Bealagrellagh Section.

The proposed bypass is 8km of dual carriageway running to the east of Tralee town, and includes five roundabouts, two road bridges, a railway bridge and two river bridges, with two further roundabouts on side roads, one priority junction and approximately 3 km of side roads.

PA Media