Project Summary
Coffey undertook the widening of a 1.6 km section of the Galway Ring Road from single to dual carriageway. The scheme provided new bus lanes, 2 m off-road cycle lanes, 2 m footways in both directions, and four signalised junctions. Works also included extensive service diversions, new drainage and water supplies, road lighting, landscaping, and associated boundary treatments.
Project Description
The site was located along the R338 Regional Road, extending from the Brown Roundabout at the rear of University College Hospital Galway to the Deane Roundabout at the Western Distributor Road. The contract delivered a dual-carriageway road with dedicated public transport and active travel infrastructure. In addition, two new signalised junctions were constructed alongside the upgrade of existing junctions, and a controlled pedestrian crossing was installed.
Scope of Works
The works included:
- Traffic management and soft ground excavation.
- Diversion and protection of existing services.
- Construction of surface water drainage and carrier network.
- Installation of ducting for multiple service providers.
- Retaining wall construction, including soil nailing and shotcrete solution.
- Road widening and pavement construction.
- Installation of kerbs, combined drainage kerb, traffic signals, signage and road markings.
- Provision of road lighting and landscaping works.
Technical Highlights
- Over 60,000 m³ of excavation carried out adjacent to live traffic, with depths up to 8 m.
- Installation of approximately 3,800 m of combined drainage kerb and 2,400 m of carrier pipes.
- Specialist earth retaining structure designed and constructed using soil nailing and shotcrete with masonry cladding, eliminating the need for more complex temporary works.
- Careful coordination with multiple utility providers (Eircom, Bord Gáis, E-Net, UPC, ESB, Traffic Signals) to manage service diversions and protection works.
Added Value
- Adoption of soil nailing and shotcrete solution delivered a practical and economical retaining structure within restricted site conditions.
- Close liaison with service providers minimised disruption and avoided costly diversions.
Environmental Safety or Community Measures
- Traffic management measures ensured safety for road users and minimal disruption during works.
- Landscaping and tree replanting integrated into the scheme to enhance the urban environment.
- Provision of cycle lanes and pedestrian facilities promoted sustainable travel and community accessibility.
To learn more about Coffey’s work in active travel and urban infrastructure, or to discuss future opportunities, please contact us at 091 844356 or info@coffeygroup.com.
