The three existing toll roads in the Republic will generate almost €700 million over the next 10 years.
According to figures released by the Minister for Transport, Mr Brennan, the Drogheda by-pass and the East Link and West Link in Dublin will generate just under €70 million a year over the next decade, based on 2003 prices.
Mr Brennan also stated that private sector funding of about €1.15 billion would be leveraged from the projected income on the National Road Authority's 11 toll-road building projects.
The National Roads Authority is currently operating the Drogheda by-pass toll but it is expected to be handed over to the private operator which will complete the motorway from Dundalk to the Border.
The Government is also considering a submission from National Toll Roads (NTR), the operator of the East Link and West Link tolls, for upgrading the M50 motorway in return for the State giving up its share of the toll revenue.
It estimates the upgrade, including widening the motorway to three lanes, will cost €500 million. The National Roads Authority estimated the cost of upgrading the motorway at some €300 million in 2001. NTR is also reported to be seeking an end to its rates bill, an estimated €3 million, but according to Department of Transport sources, they are a matter for the local authorities in the areas through which the motorway runs.
