Construction on Birr distributor road to begin in January
Offaly County Council recently signed contracts for the construction of the Birr North Distributor Road.
The successful contractor, Kenny Civils and Plant Ltd, are scheduled to commence works onsite in January, with a proposed seven-month construction timeline.
This scheme will provide a strategically important new section of road and active travel infra-structure linking the N52 and the R439 Birr to Banagher that will relieve congestion in Birr Town by providing an alternative to the existing route through the town, and assist in the decarbonisation of the town centre and further improve air quality.
The scheme will also provide better access to the National Road Network and enhance both rural and regional connectivity.
It is also expected to provide improved access to both primary and secondary schools within the vicinity of the scheme through the provision the provision of green, safe, sustainable cycling and walking infrastructure.
The project will also open up zoned development lands and promote compact growth and permeability, and assist in promoting the tourism potential offered by Birr’s historic and unique Georgian town centre.
This project is managed by the Roads and Transport Department of Offaly County Council and TOBIN Consulting Engineers under the guidance of Director of Services Tom Shanahan.
Director Shanahan stated, “This scheme is another example of the ongoing support and collaboration between Offaly County Council and our colleagues in the Department of Transport.
“The proposed scheme facilities and aids the delivery of the National Strategic Objectives as called off within ‘Project Ireland 2040’, and will provide high quality pedestrian and vehicular infra-structure on the North side of the Town.
Offaly County Council Chief Executive Anna Marie Delaney highlighted the importance of the project.
“The delivery of new infrastructural projects such as the Edenderry Inner Relief Road and now the Birr North Distributor Road promote modal shift and assist in the delivery of our Town Centre first ethos, and are vital to the continued growth of County Offaly as a regional economic driver.
“These schemes are targeted at improving both regional and rural connectivity while also providing opportunities for modal shift and improved permeability. Offaly County Council have established a program of Transport and Town Regenerations schemes that we will continue to deliver in the coming years.”
Offaly County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Audrey Hennesey Kennedy also noted the role the road will play in improving traffic flow.
“The Birr North Distributor Road when completed will help to alleviate congestion from our Town Centre, St Brendan’s Community school and will create a much-needed link between the N52 and the R439.
“This Council will continue to deliver on targeted schemes such as the Birr North Distributor Road which will help promote Offaly as a place to live, work and visit.”