Cork TD calls for prioritising realignment of road in Coachford

A Cork TD has called on Cork County Council to prioritise the realignment of the R619 at the northern entrance to Coachford village.

Fine Gael Cork North West TD John Paul O’Shea also highlighted the road safety concerns and the increasing development pressures in the Coachford area.

Mr O’Shea described the current road layout on this particular section of the R619 as substandard and no longer fit for purpose.

Mr O’Shea said: “This stretch is narrow, with poor visibility and limited space for vehicles or pedestrians. As it stands, it presents real safety risks for local residents, school traffic, and commuters.

“There are many worthy projects competing for limited funding, but this one stands out in terms of immediate need and community impact.

"We now have a window of opportunity to advance this project and I’m calling on Cork County Council to give it the priority it clearly deserves.” Mr O’Shea added: “This is a growing village with increasing demands on its infrastructure. The realignment of the R619 is essential for the future safety, accessibility and quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

“With a new residential development now underway at this very location, the need for safe, modern road infrastructure is greater than ever.

"More families, children and pedestrians will be using this route daily and the current layout is simply not safe to accommodate that increased activity.” Meanwhile Cork County Council has confirmed that the proposed road realignment of the R619 at the northern entrance of the village of Coachford, approximately 700 metres in length, will require updated design work to align with current road and active travel guidelines.

Cork County Council also stated they intend to submit a Preliminary Appraisal Form (PAF) to the Department of Transport under the Specific Improvement Grant scheme.

Mr O’Shea welcomed this development. But he also urged Cork County Council to formally prioritise the project in its Roads Programme.