More than 1,000 new construction jobs will be created over the next two years as part of a major upgrade of the N11 and N7 road networks.

BAM Contractors today signed a public-private partnership contract with the National Roads Authority to upgrade the road networks.

The capital value of the project is said to be worth €282 million and will result in over 1,000 construction jobs.

The N7 works will facilitate nationwide travel North to South without traffic lights. This includes the replacement of the existing signalised junction at Newlands Cross with a new free-flow junction. The N7 will be carried over the Belgard Road via a new flyover.

The works on the N11 include the construction of a 16km dual carriageway linking the end of the Arklow Bypass. The construction phase will be completed within 28 months of commencement, with works expected to start in May.

The new section of the N7 is planned to be complete within 21 months.

BAM chief executive Theo Cullinane said the project will significantly improve the road infrastructure along the key gateway regions of Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford.

“For the first time ever, motorists will be able to travel the length of the country without having to stop at traffic lights.”