Cork County Council Signs €206 Million Contract for M28 Motorway to Ringaskiddy

Cork County Council has signed a major construction contract worth €206 million for the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy Motorway, marking a significant milestone in delivering one of Ireland's most important infrastructure projects.

The contract signing ceremony at Cork County Hall was attended by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien, and Minister of State Jerry Buttimer, highlighting the Government's commitment to the project.

BAM Ireland will construct 11 kilometres of mainline motorway from the Bloomfield Interchange to Barnahely as part of the overall €456 million project budget, which includes land costs, advance works, and relief roads. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months and reach completion by summer 2028.

The motorway will provide crucial support for the Port of Cork's deep-water facilities in Ringaskiddy, enabling the relocation of port activities from Tivoli whilst enhancing access to a major employment hub.

"Today's contract signing marks a major step forward in delivering essential infrastructure that will benefit not just Cork, but Ireland's broader economic and transport ambitions," said Mayor of County Cork, Councillor Joe Carroll. The timing coincides with European Maritime Day 2025 being hosted in Cork this week.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the M28 as "a key component of Project Ireland 2040" that will "strengthen Ireland's integration with European ports and trade corridors, supporting national competitiveness and connectivity."

Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien emphasised the project's broader benefits:

"The M28 is more than just a road - it is a vital link that will drive economic progress. Local residents will benefit from shorter journey times, cleaner air, and safer roads."

The project forms part of the Core Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), the EU's framework for connecting ports and major logistics hubs across Europe. Funding comes from the Department of Transport through Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

Work has already commenced on the 1.5-kilometre Ringaskiddy Relief Road, being delivered by Sorensen Civil Engineering to provide interim port access.

BAM Ireland's Executive Director Alasdair Henderson said the project would "enhance regional connectivity, support economic growth, and strengthen Ireland's role within the European transport network."