Sisk has completed the €88M Killaloe Bypass providing a western bypass of Killaloe and an upgrade of the existing R494 regional road. Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, officially opened the Killaloe Bypass road, a transformative 6.2km development which includes the first new vehicular bridge across the Shannon in more than three decades.
The bridge, known as the Brian Ború Bridge, was a complex engineering feat that took 2.5 years to complete. The project is located in the vicinity of the twin towns of Killaloe, Co Clare and Ballina, Co Tipperary, on opposite sides of the River Shannon.
The scheme will greatly improve the quality of life for residents of both towns. The alternative route will take through traffic and HGVs out of both town centres, thereby significantly reducing congestion, protecting both heritage areas, and providing a much-needed boost to the local economy and the region’s tourism sector.
Steven McGee, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ireland and UK, Sisk said: “Sisk is delighted to have completed this vital new infrastructure improvement project which is a significant upgrade to the current roads network in both County Clare and County Tipperary.
“Connectivity has been enhanced through the construction of the western bypass for Killaloe/Ballina, a new bridge crossing over the River Shannon, and the upgrade of the existing R494 regional road. This project is an excellent example of real collaboration between our client, site team, plus our in-house engineering services team and key supply chain partners.”
Minister O’Brien said: “I am delighted to officially open this transformative road project, which strengthens the connection between communities in Clare and Tipperary. With approximately €88m million in funding allocated by my Department, this represents a significant Government investment in regional infrastructure and underscores our ongoing commitment to investing in and modernising Ireland’s road network.
“Road safety remains a key priority in all our infrastructure projects. The completion of the Killaloe Bypass will significantly enhance safety and efficiency for all road users. The inclusion of dedicated pedestrian and cycling facilities not only improves safety but also encourages more sustainable, active travel along this vital corridor.”
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Cllr Alan O’Callaghan said: “The need for this bridge and bypass has been evident for many years. Congestion on both sides of the river led to long tailbacks causing significant pollution and poor air quality from standing traffic. The daily frustration from 7,000 vehicles a day crossing the old single lane bridge cannot be overestimated, with road safety also an issue due to the lack of segregation between pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. But today all that will change. From this evening tail backs will hopefully be a thing of the past, and journey times will be significantly reduced, enhancing connectivity and convenience for all.”
Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council Cllr Declan Burgess said: “The completion of the Brian Ború bridge is a historic day for the people of Ballina and Killaloe. There can be no stronger symbol of the connection between the twin towns than Brian Boru, celebrated equally on both sides of the river. The finished scheme will remove traffic from the towns and allow them to fulfil their potential for both the existing residents and the many tourists that will be attracted to the area. This is a proud day for all of the people of Clare and Tipperary, and the twin towns can look forward to a bright future together.”