County Engineer: 'Cork to Kerry N22 most dangerous road in the country'

The N22 is the worst road in the country from a road safety perspective, according to Cork County Council’s Director of Roads Padraig Barrett.

Mr Barrett said there are more serious accidents on the Cork to Kerry road than any other road in the country.

“When we are talking about road safety issues, the N22 is probably the most dangerous road in the country,” The County Engineer said.

Mr Barrett made his comments in response to a query from Green Party Councillor Alan O’Connor about the sustainable practices in terms of road repairs.

The County Engineer said that when it comes to road works for safety the priority is on developing a less dangerous layout but when it comes to new projects all manner of environmental aspects are considered.

Speaking about the €280m Macroom Bypass that was recently approved for funding, Mr Barrett said getting the project off the ground was a bit like getting pigs to fly and heaped praise on Senior County Engineer Bob O Shea for getting the project ready.

“There are so many gateways, there are so many appraisals and so much signing off on a project of that scale and to do it at a time that funding is available, to have it ready when funding is available it is a bit like trying to dock a punt in a hurricane.

“Thanks to the Government for putting their trust in Cork County Council, it is an enormous project, €280m, it certainly one of the biggest Cork County Council has ever signed and thanks to Bob for having it ready and thanks to members for support.” According to the County Mayor Councillor Christopher O’Sullivan, the Macroom bypass will improve access to rural areas and improve air quality in the town itself.

The project will get underway later this year and is expected to take more than three years to complete. The route will be 22km in length and will stretch from Coolcower, east of Macroom, to west of Baile Bhuirne and Baile Mhic Íre.

The bypass has been awaited in the area for more than 20 years.