Projects / Infrastructure

Dunkettle Interchange, Cork

Name: Sisk Group
Price range: $

A significant upgrade to the junction of four national roads

In 2024, we completed the Dunkettle Interchange which marked a significant milestone in enhancing transportation infrastructure and connectivity in Cork

Client	Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII)
Duration	4 years
Value	€215m
Engineering	Jacobs

Minimising traffic disruption

Located about 5km east of Cork City Centre, the Dunkettle Interchange is the junction of four national roads. The phases and stages of the works were all planned and modelled so that every piece of work we did on the project was carefully considered in terms of the impact on traffic. We designed all aspects of the project with diversions and alternative routes in mind and we focused on gradually taking traffic off existing routes and onto new routes as the project developed.

"Ongoing close collaboration between the Government, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Cork City Council, Cork County Council, John Sisk & Son Ltd. and Jacobs allowed the project to move forward.”

Peter Walsh | Chief Executive of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII)

"This infrastructure project represents a significant investment in Cork's future and provides a vital link in the region's transport network. I believe that it will be a catalyst for enhancing economic and social activity right across Cork and the entire Munster region."

Micheál Martin | TD

"Dunkettle was an extremely complex project, working in and around live traffic at one of the country's busiest intersections, in a major urban environment. We are delighted to have now delivered and handed over the project which has already improved traffic flow, mobility, and multi-user access in the region."

Will Merriman | MD, Civil Engineering, Sisk

Sustainability

Over half of the material that was needed to be imported for the project was diverted from landfill. Additionally, 2,500 m3 of road planning was utilised rather than being sent to landfill.

Wetlands Protection

The site, being a wetlands area was home to several protected species. Working with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, we conducted surveys to ensure their protection. The project team also created a guidebook for staff to identify invasive species on-site

18

new road links

7

new bridge structures

2.9 km

new walkways & cycleways

Community

Our team organised several charity drives raising over €9,000 for various charities. We worked together to make a positive impact on the community around Cork, including Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and Cork’s Mercy Hospital. The team visited the local school to deliver presentations to students and donated sports equipment.

We created a website (https://www.dunkettle.ie/) and delivered a newsletter to residents to guarantee there was clear, consistent communication about the project. A display room was opened for visitors, which included a 3D model of the completed junction. A freephone service was also installed that operated 24/7.

The project was part of the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) which measures how well the project respected different stakeholders. Scoring between 42 to 45 out of a possible 45 in the categories of ‘Respect the Community’, ‘Care for the Environment’ and ‘Value their Workforce’, we were able to showcase our teams’ continuous efforts to achieve the Environmental Sustainable Goals (ESG’s).