City amenities set for upgrades
Councillors were this week briefed on works to improve several public amenities across Cork city.
They were told, after a question from Sinn Féin Councillor Fiona Kerins, about plans to widen the Bandon railway line for walkers and cyclists.
Gerry O’Beirne, Director of Services, Infrastructure Development at City Hall said: “Cork City Council has secured a grant allocation of €80,000 for 2021 from the National Transport Authority for preliminary design work relating to the upgrade of the Bandon railway line between the Viaduct and Kinsale Road.”
It is proposed to widen the walkway to greenway standard, improve connectivity between adjoining areas and the greenway, provide a safe and convenient corridor for pedestrians and cyclists, improve the living environment along the corridor and provide a limited number of collector routes onto the greenway.
“Public engagement and consultation will form part of the design process. The construction phase is likely to commence in 2022 subject to Part 8 planning consent and funding approvals,” added Mr O’Beirne.
Meanwhile Fine Gael Councillor Shane O’Callaghan asked, during Monday’s Cork City Council meeting, about the planned pedestrian and cycle link from Grange Road through Vernon Mount Valley and over the South Ring Road to Tramore Valley Park.
Mr O’Beirne said: “The Grange Road to Tramore Valley Park Pedestrian and Cycle Scheme is currently at detailed design stage. Seasonal surveys to inform the design are currently underway and further site investigation works will be completed as weather improves. On completion of these surveys, the preparation of tender documentation will commence.”
The council secured initial grant funding of €1.5m for the scheme and it is envisaged that it will got to tender in Q3 of this year with construction underway before the end of the year.
Also during the meeting, Independent Councillor Thomas Moloney asked for an update on plans for Clashduv Park. David Joyce, Director of Operations, said tenders to upgrade the sports pitch are being assessed at the moment and it is expected a contract will be awarded in late March.
“It is anticipated works will commence in late April or early May subject to Covid–19 restrictions being lifted,” said Mr Joyce.