Bantry junction needs urgent attention after bad weather, says councillor

A major road junction in the centre of Bantry requires urgent repairs due to the severe deterioration of the road surface following the prolonged spell of bad weather, according to a local councillor.

Independent Ireland’s Danny Collins said continued rainfall had left roads in a “very rough” condition. 

In a motion proposed to the recent meeting of Cork County Council’s West Cork Municipal District, Mr Collins said: “I am calling on Cork County Council to totally resurface the junction on New Street, Main Street, High Street, and Bridge Street, Bantry”.

Executive engineer Kevin Lynch said: “Works in this location have been under consideration. The presence of the culvert poses a significant challenge to resurfacing work. 

"Owing to the poor condition of the culvert beneath the road [New Street and Bridge Street], careful consideration will have to be given to the type of works, with the use of heavy machinery, excavators, vibrating rollers, etc, so as not to cause any further deterioration.

He added: “We will consult with the road design office and request a functional design that would take into account: The least impact on the culvert, and the cost-effectiveness of the repairs. 

"Any repairs will be short-term owing to the proposed upgrade of the culvert, and as such, those repairs will need to be cost-effective.” 

This article is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme