Project Summary
Coffey delivered the Skehard Road Improvement Scheme Phase 3 for Cork City Council, a major urban infrastructure upgrade to enhance facilities for bus users, cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. The project addressed long-standing congestion issues in the Mahon and Blackrock areas and supports the city’s broader sustainable transport strategy. The works included carriageway realignment, installation of new bus and cycle lanes, upgraded junctions and traffic signals, public lighting, drainage improvements, and enhanced pedestrian facilities. All works were delivered while maintaining live traffic through a busy commuter corridor.
Project Description
Located in a densely developed suburban area in Cork, the Skehard Road project involved comprehensive upgrades along a key commuter route adjacent to Mahon Point Shopping Centre and the Jack Lynch Tunnel. The scheme focused on improving transport infrastructure, road safety, and public realm amenities for the local community. Works were delivered in a live environment with complex traffic and pedestrian management, ensuring continuous access for businesses, residents, and emergency services. The project also included significant environmental controls and stakeholder engagement throughout construction.
Scope of Works
The scheme included the following:
- Full site clearance of 1.24 ha and demolition of one residential property.
- Excavation of redundant pavements.
- Earthworks for road realignment, embankments, and retaining wall foundations.
- Installation of a reinforced concrete retaining wall.
- Construction of new footpaths, kerbs, tactile paving, and cycle lanes.
- Provision of new traffic lanes, bus lanes, shelters, and passenger infrastructure.
- Upgrade of three signalised junctions with new ducting, signals, detector loops, and crossings.
- Installation of new public lighting columns with lanterns.
- Surface water drainage and gullies, ESB and telecom ducting, and LV diversions.
- Undergrounding of ESB lines and relocation of gas meters.
- Hard and soft landscaping, signage, road markings, and new boundary treatments.
Technical Highlights
- Over 60 site-specific traffic management plans implemented to maintain access.
- Continuous two-way traffic maintained with reduced speed limit (30 km/h).
- Day/night TTOS operations coordinated with An Garda Síochána and Cork City Council.
- Deep excavations and live utility diversions managed safely under constrained conditions.
Environmental and Community Measures
- Environmental risks were managed through strict controls, including the licensed removal of asbestos from demolished structures and careful handling of overhead and underground services. Coffey implemented biodiversity enhancements through soft landscaping and reinstatement works.
- A Community Liaison Officer was appointed to lead engagement with residents and businesses. Letter drops, door-to-door visits, and a dedicated phone line ensured clear communication and rapid response to public concerns.
Added Value
- Coffey redesigned the drainage layout to reduce the number of pipes drops, improving constructability and reducing cost.
- High-quality boundary reinstatement improved local visual impact and resident satisfaction.
- Proactive stakeholder communication contributed to efficient delivery and minimal disruption.
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.
