Timeline

• 1971

  Dublin Transportation Study recommends a 360 degree ring road encircling Dublin to be completed by 1991.

• 1979

  The Local Government (Toll Road) Act provides for private sector sector investment in public infrastructure projects.

• 1987

  Agreement is reached between the West Link Toll Bridge Company and Dublin County Council for the construction and operation of the West Link Toll Bridge. The agreement is for 30 years with corporation tax payable at rate of 50%.

• 1988
  

  Construction of the West-Link begins.

• 1990

  A 3.2km section of motorway including bridge opens. Click here to view the RTE report.

• 1995

  Toll charge is now 70p, equivalent to €0.89.

• 2001

  From September of this year the West-Link charges are increased by 25% due to the imposition of V.A.T. on tolls. A supplemental agreement allows for construction of a second bridge to commence.

• 2002

  Introduction of Euro. Rise in toll charge of 27%.

• 2003
  

  The second bridge opens and Corporation Tax reduces to present level of 12.5%.

• 2005

  Toll charges rise 20%.

• 2008

  The bridge reverts to state after agreement with NTR on a deal worth €600 million. Barrier free electronic tolling is introduced.