Planning application for Mallow relief road could be submitted this year

A planning submission for the Mallow relief road project is expected by the end of this year.

An Oireachtas transport committee meeting at Dáil Éireann last week heard that the delivery of the Mallow relief road remains a firm priority for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

A spokesperson from the Department of Transport told The Echo: “The Mallow Relief Road is expected to be submitted for planning approval by year end. It will then be for An Coimisiún Pleanála to consider the application.

“The department is not in a position to state when this process will conclude.”

According to the timeline outlined at the committee meeting, the current projected process, subject to no judicial review taking place, is for the submission for planning by the end of 2026, approximately one year for the planning process, one year for analysis and procurement, and two years for construction.

Cork North Central Labour Party TD Eoghan Kenny has welcomed what he described as the clearest indication yet, that the Mallow Relief Road is moving closer to delivery.

Speaking following the meeting of the Oireachtas transport committee with TII officials, Mr Kenny said he directly sought clarity on the expected timeline for the project and received confirmation of TII’s ongoing commitment to the scheme.

Mr Kenny, who is based in Mallow, said that is the closest we have ever been to seeing the Mallow Relief road become a reality.

“While I understand frustrations after years of delays, people should recognise that genuine progress is now being made.

“The engagement with TII at the transport committee was extremely important because people in Mallow and across North Cork want clarity and honesty about where this project stands.

“The message from TII was clear . They remain committed to delivering the Mallow Relief Road and there is now a visible pathway forward.” Mr Kenny said that this project is essential to tackling chronic traffic congestion, improving road safety, and supporting economic growth across the wider North Cork region.

“Anyone who travels through Mallow knows the pressure the town faces daily. This project is badly needed not just for commuters, but for businesses, emergency services and the future development of the region.

“I will continue pushing at every level to make sure this project keeps moving and that the people of Mallow finally see delivery after years of waiting.”