M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy: Works Progress Update

Construction works on the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy scheme are advancing across multiple sections, with significant activity under way from Rochestown to Shanbally as the project moves through key phases of development.

In the Rochestown area, construction of a retaining wall on the right-hand side of the N28 off-ramp is now under way, representing a key milestone for that section of the route. At Mount Oval, excavation for the new slip road continues, while at Maryborough Hill, initial enabling works — including service diversions and the removal and adjustment of boundary walls — are expected to begin in the coming weeks.

Works on the Maryborough to Carr's Hill link road are also progressing, with excavation and retaining wall construction ongoing on both the eastern and western sides of the N28. These operations are expected to remain active for the foreseeable future.

On the Board of Works Road, early-stage works for a new bridge structure have commenced, with excavation and construction set to continue over the coming months. In the Shannonpark area, construction of the structure and new link road is advancing, with temporary lane changes currently in place to facilitate completion of the south abutment. This arrangement will remain for several weeks before traffic moves onto the newly completed section.

Looking ahead, works to connect the existing L2473 (Ballinrea Road) to a new roundabout are scheduled to begin shortly. At Shanbally (Marion Terrace), construction traffic continues to cross the road during working hours, with excavation for a future overbridge due to commence in the near term. Rock excavation by controlled blasting is also set to recommence next week in a cutting area north of the Shannonpark Roundabout.

Traffic Management

A number of traffic management measures are in operation across the scheme. The Rochestown off-ramp is restricted to a single lane for several weeks to facilitate retaining wall construction. At Mount Oval, flagmen are managing plant crossings, while stop/go systems and temporary signals will be introduced at Maryborough Hill in the coming weeks.

The N28 between Rochestown and Carr's Hill remains reduced to one lane in each direction, with motorists advised to take extra care. These restrictions are expected to extend further north towards the Bloomfield area in the near future.

Traffic management is also in place on the R855 and R609 (Carrigaline Road), with flagmen or temporary signals used during working hours depending on weather and site conditions. On the R611 (Carrigaline Road), lane adjustments are active and drivers are asked to follow all signage. Flagmen are in position on Ballinrea Road, with additional controls along the R611 verge. At Shanbally (Marion Terrace), stop/go management continues during working hours.

Ringaskiddy Relief Road

On the Ringaskiddy Relief Road, surfacing works are almost complete, with only the northern tie-in at Barnahealy and the Johnson & Johnson entrance remaining. All surfacing is expected to be finished by the end of next week, with line marking and road stud installation following behind.

Footpaths at Ringport and Barnahealy will also be completed next week. Work on the realigned boundary wall at Johnson and Johnson is progressing well, with blockwork almost finished and masonry cladding under way. Civil works for ITS gantries and CCTV pole foundations are complete, with poles and steelwork for signage due to be erected within the next two weeks.

It has also been decided to resurface the L6517 between the Tower Road junction and the Johnson & Johnson (DePuy) entrance. These works are scheduled to commence on the week beginning 25 May 2026 and are expected to last approximately one week.

MTU Site Visit

Second-year Civil and Structural Engineering students from Munster Technological University (MTU) recently visited the project site as part of their practical learning programme. Students observed structural elements, construction techniques, and health and safety practices in action, and engaged with industry professionals. The visit formed part of their broader academic development, bridging classroom learning with real-world construction experience.

For queries about the construction works, contact BAM Public Relations Officer Des Gilsenan at m28queries@bam.comor call 1800 816197.