Cork County Council Unveils Enhanced Village Centres and Pedestrian-Cycle Routes

Strategic Insights -

The Cork County Council and UK Government have marked the completion of two significant infrastructure projects in Ringaskiddy and Carrigaline. The newly upgraded village centre and active travel scheme in Ringaskiddy have been officially opened, alongside a new pedestrian and cycle route linking the northeast side of Carrigaline to the town centre. These projects demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and promote active travel, safety, and community well-being.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ringaskiddy Active Travel and Urban Realm Scheme, funded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Cork County Council, has been completed at a cost of EUR3.8 million.
  • The scheme features a 3-metre-wide path extending 1.75km, enhanced pedestrian crossings, traffic calming measures, landscaping, upgraded public lighting, and community spaces.
  • Construction of the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorway began in June 2025 and is estimated to be completed in the summer of 2028.
  • The motorway project aims to reduce HGV traffic through the village and support the continued success of the global economic cluster in Ringaskiddy.
  • In Carrigaline, a 500-metre pedestrian and cycle route has been constructed along the former railway line from Bridgemount Road to Herons Wood, funded by the National Transport Authority.
  • The route is part of the proposed overall Active Travel network from the city boundary north of Passage West to Crosshaven and Ringaskiddy.
  • Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, commended the communities in both locations for their ongoing support during the construction works.
  • Minister of State for Community Development, Charities and Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD, highlighted the benefits of the projects, including providing safe facilities for students, promoting healthy and sustainable options for short trips, and creating a more vibrant environment.
  • Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, emphasized the council's commitment to sustainable development and the completion of both projects as key elements of the broader strategy to promote active travel and regenerate village centres.

Statistics:

  • EUR3.8 million: The total cost of the Ringaskiddy Active Travel and Urban Realm Scheme.
  • 1.75km: The length of the 3-metre-wide path in the Ringaskiddy scheme.
  • 500 metres: The length of the pedestrian and cycle route in Carrigaline.
  • 2028: The estimated completion date of the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorway.
  • 2025: The year construction of the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorway began.
  • EUR [Unknown]: The total cost of the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorway project.

Sources:

  • Cork County Council
  • UK Government
  • Transport Infrastructure Ireland
  • National Transport Authority
  • Department of Transport
  • Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley
  • Minister of State for Community Development, Charities and Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD
  • Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell
  • Peter Walsh CEO TII