The way has been cleared for the upgrade of the Lucan bypass in Co Dublin after a decision of An Bord Pleanála.
The plans involve the addition of a third lane on the existing N4 westbound between the Ballydowd and Leixlip junctions and eastbound between the Leixlip and Quarryvale junctions with a separated junction at Newcastle Road,
The development also includes closure of existing crossings and additional bus facilities.
In a decision issued yesterday, An Bord Pleanála approved the upgrade on the grounds that, subject to certain modifications, it would not cause significant adverse effects on the environment.
It stated consideration was taken of an environmental impact statement.
The board also approved a South Dublin County Council compulsory purchase order.
The board requires that before construction work begins, the council should prepare an overall traffic management strategy for the period when the construction of the N4 Lucan Bypass Upgrade Scheme and the Outer Ring Road Phase 2 Scheme, from Adamstown roundabout to the Ballydowd/N4 junction, overlap.