The N22 Macroom to Baile Bhúirne bypass was officially opened by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on November 6, following the completion of the final 6km section of the road. The project cost €280m.
The road aims to benefit the residents of Cork and Kerry, as well as visitors to the region, by reducing journey times, eliminating traffic congestion in towns and villages along the route, and lowering fuel costs associated with traffic congestion.
With traffic redirected to the main road, existing roads can be improved to provide safer cycling and walking routes between local areas. The project aims to enhance connectivity between Cork, Killarney, and Tralee, thereby boosting local, regional, and national development.
The bypass includes significant engineering achievements, such as one of the deepest cuts ever excavated and blasted in Ireland. Over a two-year period, more than 500,000 m3 of rock was recycled to form the road’s foundation.
The completed dual carriageway bypasses Macroom Town, Baile Mhic Íre, and Baile Bhúirne, providing a major upgrade to the road infrastructure between Cork and Kerry.
It includes four junctions and 101 principal structures, including river bridges, overbridges, underbridges, and retaining walls.
The opening of the road is seen as an important milestone for the Gaeltacht Mhúscraí community, with expected benefits such as reduced air pollution, safer access to schools and businesses, increased attractiveness for housing developments, and improved connectivity.
Since the bypass allows Macroom to be bypassed, the town has experienced reduced congestion, making it a more appealing stop for motorists traveling between Cork and Kerry.
The construction of the 22km road began in January 2020 and involved a joint venture between Jons Civil Engineering Company Ltd and John Cradock Ltd. Over 2,200 people were directly involved in the project, with over 300 construction staff working on the road daily at its peak.
Ahead of the official opening, a 5km race and walk was organized on the new bypass section, raising funds for the Ionad Lae Day Centre in Baile Bhuirne and the local GAA club, Naomh Abán.
