€1m emergency funding expected for tourist route hit by landslide

FUNDING is expected to be made available almost immediately to repair a section of the damaged road on the scenic Slea Head Drive, which has been closed to traffic following a cliff collapse.

As tourism interests in the area clamoured for speedy action yesterday, both Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue and acting Kerry county manager Tom Curran said they were confident money would be forthcoming.

Mr Curran, who said the work would cost around €1m, revealed the plan was to re-align the road, near Dunquin, by moving it further inwards rather than rebuilding the damaged embankment. Land may have to be acquired from three different people and Mr Curran stressed theirgoodwill would be needed if the work is to progress quickly.