A decision has finally been made on the future of Hartley bridge in Leitrim.
An Bord Pleanála have given the go ahead for the demolition of the problem bridge and the construction of a replacement.
The infrastructure between Carrick on Shannon and Cootehall in Roscommon has been a major point of contention among locals and road users due to it's deterioration.
Leitrim County Council lodged planning permission over two years ago to take the bridge down and construct a replacement 25 metres downstream, with the issue then taken to the higher planning authority.
The process saw numerous delays and deadlines missed, with An Bord Pleanála making a final decision on the application this week.
Confirming the news this morning, Local TD Frank Feighan says it's hoped the long awaited works will commence in the new year:
