M28 Approval A Major Step Forward for Cork

The An Bord Pleanála ruling approving the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorway has today been welcomed by Cork Chamber as critical for the future development of Cork.

Director of Public Affairs, Thomas Mc Hugh, commented: “The M28 is a key infrastructural project needed for all of Munster and for Ireland. Not only is the M28 required to underpin the social and economic future of Cork by opening up more IDA lands and facilitate safer commuting, it is also the key link to facilitate the Port of Cork’s move to Ringakiddy, opening up 220 hectares of lands in the Docklands to be developed for new housing, civic amenities and commerce.”

“From the outset, Cork Chamber has been supportive of the M28 motorway linking Dunkettle Interchange to Ringaskiddy. As part of the An Bord Pleanála process, we have made a number of submissions in support of a route redevelopment, which is crucial if we are to meet the needs of future population target projections, facilitate jobs growth and increase our regional and national resilience in an increasingly uncertain and competitive trade environment.”

Mr. Mc Hugh added: “Fundamentally we need to maximise our regional strategic employment areas, one of which is Ringaskiddy, and invest in our strategic international connectivity assets for Ireland to retain its national competitiveness. Currently there is growing congestion along the N28, and this just isn’t sustainable. In addition, the existing road is unsafe for the volume of vehicles utilising this stretch which will only grow in the future as more housing comes to Carrigaline.”

“With the future development potential of both our Docklands, the Port of Cork, and Ringaskiddy as a nationally significant employment zone all resting on M28 moving forward we are delighted with An Board Pleanála granting a supportive decision as simply we cannot afford to continue with the status quo.”