Project Summary
The Wicklow Port Access and Town Relief Road project involved the construction of 5.4 km of new and realigned single carriageway roads around Wicklow Town. Delivered in a busy urban environment and an environmentally sensitive location, the works included major bridge construction, ground improvement over soft soils, and the installation of extensive drainage systems. The scheme significantly improved traffic flow, enhanced port access, and reduced congestion in the town, while protecting the surrounding environment.
Project Description
The Wicklow Port Access and Town Relief Road involved the construction of 5.4 km of new and realigned single carriageway roads, linking Rathnew Road to Murrough Road and Marlton Road to Rathnew Road. The works included significant earthworks, new pavements, drainage, kerbing, landscaping, lighting, safety barriers, and rock armour coastal protection.
Four major bridges were constructed, including a 134 m post-tensioned bridge over the Broadlough Estuary, a 48 m contractor-designed arch unit over the Ashtown Stream, and two railway bridges over the Dublin–Rosslare line. The project also delivered new junctions, footpaths, cycle tracks, pedestrian crossings, and environmental mitigation measures, improving connectivity and access around Wicklow Town.
Scope of Works
The works included:
- Construction of 5.4 km of new and realigned single carriageway roads.
- Two at-grade roundabouts and associated junction works.
- Four major bridge structures and six culverts.
- Mass earthworks, deep excavations, and high fill embankments.
- Pavement layers, surfacing, kerbing, and landscaping.
- Footpaths, cycle tracks, and pedestrian crossings.
- Road lighting, electrical works, signage, and markings.
- Safety barriers and fencing.
- Rock armour coastal protection.
- Comprehensive drainage and environmental mitigation works.
Technical Highlights
- Innovative reinforced earth retaining walls to manage poor ground conditions.
- Ground treatment using granular fill, geogrid reinforcement, and advanced drainage.
- Complex bridge construction over estuary, streams, and live railway lines.
- Efficient material reuse on-site to minimise waste and reduce imports.
- 16 km of drainage pipes and water control systems installed.
Added Value
- Maintained traffic flow throughout construction without full road closures.
- Delivered a major infrastructure scheme in an environmentally sensitive area without incidents.
- Reduced environmental impact through material reuse and efficient earthworks.
- Achieved cost savings through minimised waste and optimised resources.
- Completed on time and within budget with strong client and community approval.
Environmental, Safety or Community
- Stringent environmental controls to protect the Broadlough Estuary.
- Tailored traffic management strategies to ensure road safety and minimise disruption.
- Landscaping and habitat protection integrated into works.
- Safe working methods over live railway lines and watercourses.
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.
