New Ringaskiddy motorway deemed a key transport route

AN Board Pleanála says the motorway is in line with the objectives of Project Ireland 2040 and will be a key transport route connecting Cork city to the national roadwork via the N40 and the port at Ringaskiddy.

The Board found that the M28 will assist in alleviating traffic congestion on the existing N28 and will “improve the human environment for communities along the route” as well as contribute to road safety for all road users.

In relation to residents concerns raised in submissions to the Board, the planning decision states: “The proposed road development would not have significant negative effects on the community in the vicinity, would not give rise to a risk of pollution, would not give rise to unacceptable visual or landscape impacts, would not have a detrimental impact on archaeological and architectural heritage, would not seriously injure the amenities of the area or of property in the vicinity and would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and convenience. The proposed road development would, therefore, be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.” 

The route will follow a number of phases, the first being a standard dual carriageway with two lanes and a hard shoulder.

This section will pass through an 11km area in Douglas, Monfieldstown, Mounthovel, Maryborough, Moneygurney, Castletreasure, Ballinimlagh, Ballinrea, Shannonpark, Hilltown, Carrigaline, Ballyhemiken Raffeen, Shanbally, Barnahely and Ballintaggart.

A single carriageway with one lane will cover 1.6km taking in Barnahely, Loughbeg and Ringaskiddy.

The project will encompass a service area of 1.8 hectares in Loughbeg and Ringaskiddy comprising of the construction of a junction at Carr's Hill and three separated junctions at Bloomfield/Rochestown Road, Shannpatrick and Shanbally. Four on-line roundabouts will be required at Barnahely, Loughbeg, Ringaskiddy and the Port of Cork.

This will involve the removal of the existing Maryborough Hill overbridge to be replaced by a new one, 16 new retaining wall structures, 15 culvert structures and diversions of underground electricity cables, gas mains, water mains and communication cables.