Almost Impossible To Cross Busy Road Near Shanbally Roundabout

Writes Leo McMahon

A controlled pedestrian crossing in Shanbally between the church, the car park and the shop and pub was requested in a motion from Cllr Pat Donovan (FF) and supported at the monthly meeting of the county council’s Carrigaline Municipal District (MD).

‘It’s an extremely busy road,’ he stated, adding that people pulling into the church car park at lunch and other times to get items in the shop found it very difficult to cross and were having to take chances. A crossing would make it safer for everyone. There is also church and school near the crossing and roundabout.

In a report, acting senior executive engineer Alan Cogan said: ‘Transport Infrastructure Ireland are investigating this proposal because it is on a national road, and an update has been sought.’

Cllr Jack White (FG) seconded and in support, Cllr Eoghan Fahy (SF) seconded the motion saying the volume of traffic and in particular the speed of some heavy goods vehicles which was chronic at times.  An cathaoirleach Cllr Ben Dalton-O’Sullivan (Ind) concurred. The issue was raised previously by former Cllrs Marcia D’Alton (Ind), Seamus McGrath (FF) and others.

Cllr Pat Donovan illustrating how very difficult it is to cross the extremely busy N28 at Shanbally village where he is calling for a controlled pedestrian crossing Photo Leo McMahon

Cllr Una McCarthy (FG) had a motion that the council include the L2492 in the 2025 resurfacing programme.

‘The L2492 is a secondary residential road running south from the N28, connecting Lower Shanbally, Upper Shanbally, Raheens, and Coolmore. It begins at the Coolmore junction on the R613 (Carrigaline Road), extending for about 500 metres before turning left at The Grotto, then right onto Shanbally for another 500 metres. This area is a mix of old and new homes, with modern estates like Coolmore Gardens and Coolmore Close housing young families, while older homes are occupied by retirees. The road serves a bus route and children attend the National School in Shanbally. 

‘The L2492 carries heavy traffic from cars, and industrial vehicles each week, leading to significant congestion, especially during peak hours, with tailbacks often exceeding 400 metres. This makes local commuting challenging and hazardous for residents. 

‘The road surface is in poor condition and continues to deteriorate. Residents have shown great patience but they deserve a safe, well-maintained road. We urge the Council to prioritize repairs and improvements for the safety and well-being of those who live here,’ said Cllr McCarthy.  Cllr Fahy spoke in support.

Acting senior executive engineer Alan Cogan reported: ‘Significant works are proposed along this road as part of the M28 project. As such, it would be premature to undertake major works there. There is a patch adjacent to Coolmore Gardens that will be repaired locally with a velocity patcher and these interim works have been scheduled’.

M28 Ringaskiddy Project

A report from the MD officer Denise Kidney updated councillors on the M28 Action Travel Project and Ringaskiddy Public Realm Enhancement Scheme extending from the main Port of Cork entrance to Gobby Beach car park. Works include new paving, landscaping, junction improvements as well as gateway features and raised pedestrian crossings to curb speeding. There is also a new bus shelter near the Ferry Boat Inn and drainage works on the new northern footpath.

‘These works commenced in early February with car parking anticipated to be reinstated by mid-April, weather permitting. Pedestrian access to the playground will be maintained and traffic signals are in use to facilitate works’.

Ms Kidney said a temporary closure of the L6518 Tower Road commenced on February 3rd for approximately three months to facilitate upgrading works. It was closed from its junction with Loughbeg Road to Old Post Office Road junction. The council was working closely with contractor Sorensen to minimise disruption.

She pointed out that there were three sets of stop-go traffic signals and some parking spaces would be lost temporarily. The council was co-ordinating traffic management with contractor Coffey and this was being monitored. Where possible, two-way traffic would be maintained. Ms Kidney added that newsletters would continue to be circulated on a bi-monthly basis and advance notice given if particular restrictions agreed with the contractor were necessary.