Public Consultation Opens for Cork Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Road (CNDMR) Emerging Preferred Route

Cork City Council, in partnership with the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the Department of Transport, has launched a public consultation on the Emerging Preferred Route for the Cork Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Road (CNDMR). The consultation period, which starts today, Thursday, 27 February, will remain open until Thursday, 10 April 2025.

Overview of the CNDMR

The proposed Cork Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Road (CNDMR) is a 14-kilometre route designed to improve connectivity on the northern side of Cork City. Stretching from Carrigrohane Road in the west to Glanmire in the east, the road will traverse key areas such as Hollyhill, Dublin Hill, and Banduff.

The CNDMR is intended to support active travel, public transport, and general traffic, offering dedicated infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists, and bus services. The project aims to improve journey times, enhance access to employment hubs, and unlock zoned land for residential and commercial development. It is a significant component of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS), published in 2020, which identified the need for a strategic east-west transport corridor in this part of the city.

Public Figures Welcome the Consultation

The launch of the consultation has been widely welcomed by local authorities, business leaders, and development agencies.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Dan Boyle, highlighted the project’s role in advancing sustainable transport:

“I’m delighted that the Cork Northern Distributor Emerging Preferred Route has been published and is now out for consultation. This project is crucial for improving sustainable transport options across Cork City, prioritising non-car-based transport modes. It will bring greater connectivity to both existing and new communities in this part of the city and beyond. I would encourage as many people as possible to look at the plans and make their views known.”

Valerie O’Sullivan, Chief Executive of Cork City Council, emphasised the economic and social benefits of the scheme:

“The Cork Northern Distributor Road is a ‘critical enabler’ to improve the quality of life for those living and working in our city. It will ease the movement of people and trade across the city and unlock opportunities for further investment. The public consultation process is a significant milestone in the delivery of the scheme, which will bring benefits to our city not only in terms of transportation improvement, but also enabling Cork to deliver its growth targets in terms of population, employment, and sustainability.”

Deirdre O’Connor, Divisional Manager at IDA Ireland, noted the scheme’s potential to attract investment:

“IDA Ireland welcomes the publication today of the CNDMR Emerging Preferred Route. The scheme will allow for greater access to existing and proposed employment locations, including by active travel and public transport means, and will unlock opportunities for further indigenous and foreign direct investment in Cork City and beyond. The announcement of the route is a very positive step for the continued sustainable growth of Cork City.”

How the Public Can Participate

Cork City Council is encouraging public participation through multiple channels. Four public information open days have been scheduled, allowing residents to view detailed plans and discuss the project with members of the project team:

• Wednesday, 5 March 2025 – Clayton Silversprings Hotel, Tivoli (10 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
• Wednesday, 12 March 2025 – The Maldron Hotel, John Redmond Street, Shandon (10 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
• Friday, 21 March 2025 – Blackpool Shopping Centre, Blackpool (10 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
• Tuesday, 25 March 2025 – City Hall, Anglesea Street (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Additionally, the project details, including maps and supporting documents, can be accessed online at www.cndmrpublicconsultation.ie. Submissions can be made via the website, in person at the open days, or by post to:

CNDMR Public Consultation
Infrastructure Development Directorate
Cork City Council
City Hall, Anglesea Street
Cork, T12 T997

The consultation period will close at 5 p.m. on 10 April 2025.

Key Features and Benefits of the CNDMR

• Connectivity: Enhanced transport links for both existing and future communities.
• Employment & Investment: Improved access to job centres and new business opportunities.
• Active Travel & Public Transport: Dedicated infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists, and buses.
• Reduced Congestion: Eases traffic in Cork City Centre and along existing routes.
• Urban Development: Supports housing and commercial expansion on zoned land.
• Environmental Considerations: Designed using best practices in sustainability and urban landscaping.

Next Steps

Following the consultation, feedback will be assessed to finalise the Emerging Preferred Route, leading to the confirmation of the Preferred Route. This will then proceed to Design Stage and Planning.

Residents, businesses, and other stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the consultation process to help shape this significant infrastructure project for Cork City.