First Rock Blast Completed on M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy Project

• Controlled rock excavation work commenced this afternoon at Shannon Park, with the first blast successfully carried out at 14:30. Future blasts will be notified via text alert system to registered residents.

BAM, the contractors working on the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy road project, successfully completed their first controlled rock blast at Shannon Park this afternoon. The blast, which took place at 14:30 as scheduled, marks the beginning of rock excavation work along this section of the new motorway.

The work forms part of the ongoing construction of the M28 motorway, which will provide enhanced connectivity between Cork city and the strategically important Port of Cork at Ringaskiddy. The blasting operations are necessary to excavate rock along the route alignment at Shannon Park.

A comprehensive audible warning system was implemented for today's blast, with residents and those in the vicinity hearing a series of horn sirens at specific intervals: one long horn siren 15 minutes before the blast, three long horn sirens at the five-minute mark, seven short horn sirens one minute prior, and a final long horn siren immediately before detonation.

Shannon Park local road had manned sentry points at the site compound gate to prevent unauthorised access during the blasting operation. These safety measures ensured that no members of the public could inadvertently enter the danger zone.

For future blasts, dates and times will be communicated via a text alert system. Residents and property owners in the area will receive text messages the evening before each scheduled blast, providing them with the exact timing for the following day.

Des Gilsenan, BAM Public Liaison, stated:

"All blasting will be conducted in line with statutory requirements and codes of practice to prevent adverse impacts on the public, property, or the environment."

Local residents who wish to receive future blast notifications are encouraged to register for the text alert system by sending their mobile phone number to M28queries@bam.com. This proactive communication approach ensures that those living and working near the construction zone can plan accordingly.

BAM has emphasised that all blasting operations will comply with statutory requirements and established codes of practice. The company has implemented these measures to minimise disruption whilst ensuring the safety of the public and protecting property and the environment throughout the construction phase.

For queries or concerns about the blasting operations or the wider M28 project, residents can contact the BAM Public Liaison team via email at M28queries@bam.com or by calling the dedicated freephone number 1-800-816-197.

The M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorway, once completed, will significantly improve access to Ringaskiddy, home to the Port of Cork, pharmaceutical facilities, and the National Maritime College of Ireland; a development long awaited by commuters and businesses alike.