Killaloe Bypass officially opened by Minister Darragh O’Brien TD
The project is expected to lead to a 45% reduction in congestion and encourage tourism to the area which sits in a unique and scenic location at the mouth of Lough Derg.
We were delighted to attend the official opening of the Killaloe Bypass, Shannon Bridge Crossing (Brian Boru Bridge) & R494 Improvement Scheme by Minister Darragh O’Brien T.D. on Thursday, 22nd May.
An 18th century heritage masonry arch bridge has linked the twin-towns of Killaloe, Co. Clare and Ballina, Co. Tipperary for centuries. However, the existing bridge is extremely narrow and for the last number of years it has been operated under stop-go traffic light control, leading to severe traffic congestion and conflict with pedestrians and vulnerable road users.
This project has facilitated a new bridge linking the towns to be built across the River Shannon, with two traffic lanes and pedestrian/cyclist facilities on both sides. The scheme also includes a new bypass of Killaloe town and improvements to the regional R494 road which connects Ballina with the M7 motorway.
Our multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy team conducted detailed design, tender assessments, advanced works, environmental assessments, landscaping works, utility diversions, employer’s representative and site supervision services for the project on behalf of Clare County Council.
The project is expected to lead to a 45% reduction in congestion and encourage tourism to the area which sits in a unique and scenic location at the mouth of Lough Derg. It also improves connectivity to the local railway station in nearby Birdhill, offering a sustainable transport option to locals and visitors alike.
Key elements of the scheme include:
- 3.0km of new offline Type 3 single carriageway.
- 3.2km of widened/realigned online Type 3 single carriageway.
- Pedestrian and cyclist facilities over the full length.
- 3 roundabouts and 2 staggered priority junctions.
- 22 principal structures including the Shannon Bridge Crossing, Kilmastulla River bridge, railway overbridge, a farm underpass, stream culverts and retaining walls.
- Extensive earthworks including a 13m deep cutting.
- Accommodation works for over 100 affected landowners.
The new Brian Boru Bridge has 6 spans and is 207m long and consists of steel arched trusses supporting a steel-concrete composite ladder deck on reinforced concrete piers, pilecaps and piled foundations.
Speaking at the official opening, Minister Darragh O’Brien T.D. said, “I am delighted to officially open this transformative road project, which strengthens the connection between communities in Clare and Tipperary. With approximately €88m million in funding allocated by my Department, this represents a significant Government investment in regional infrastructure and underscores our ongoing commitment to investing in and modernising Ireland’s road network."
"Road safety remains a key priority in all our infrastructure projects. The completion of the Killaloe Bypass will significantly enhance safety and efficiency for all road users. The inclusion of dedicated pedestrian and cycling facilities not only improves safety but also encourages more sustainable, active travel along this vital corridor.”
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