Work has commenced on an Active Travel Scheme that is set to improve road safety and accessibility on the Tulla Road in Ennis.
Contractors appointed by Clare County Council have begun working on the Tulla Road Active Travel Scheme which will provide a continuous 2.2km primary cycle route and enhanced walking and wheeling facilities, incorporating new and upgraded bus stops to improve connectivity between St Senan’s Road and Hillcrest Junction.
The works will also see the upgrade of existing pedestrian crossings and introduce new crossings at key locations, while also implementing traffic calming measures such as junction tightening and a raised table at Ballymacahill Junction. The scheme includes one-way segregated cycle tracks on both sides of the road, with shared-use paths in areas where space is limited.
Construction is expected to continue for approximately 18 months in seven phases:
Phase 1: Gort Na mBláth to Hillcrest (approximately 12 weeks duration)
Phase 2: Millbank to Gort na Bláth
Phase 3: Elm Wood to Millbank
Phase 4: Newpark Rd to Elm Wood
Phase 5: Knockaderry Grove to Newpark Road
Phase 6: Cloverhill to Knockaderry Grove
Phase 7: St Senans Rd to Cloverhill
A traffic management system will be in place throughout the duration of the works, including temporary traffic lights. Works will take place weekdays from 8am to 6pm and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm but works impacting road operation will take place from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 9.00am to 1.00pm on Saturdays, allowing for free flow of school and standard work traffic.
Any nighttime working and Temporary Traffic Management shall only take place with prior approval, and the contractor will ensure alternative access to all properties and maintain 24-hour emergency access at all times.
Clare County Council Senior Executive Engineer Anne O’Sullivan said, “This project is designed to deliver significant improvements for cyclists, pedestrians, and all road users along the Tulla Road corridor. To achieve this outcome some disruption can be expected during the construction phase, but we are doing everything possible to minimise the impact including giving special consideration to traffic flow at peak times such as school and work travel.
Clare County Council and the contractors will keep residents and stakeholders informed at all stages through monthly leaflet drops, local newspaper and radio ads, social media updates, and variable message signs on approach roads. A liaison officer has also been appointed for the duration of the works and can be contacted mailto:info@nevillecivilworks.ie info@nevillecivilworks.ie with any questions.
The Clare County Council Active Travel Team can also be contacted by email.
