Slea Head traffic set to resume

TRAFFIC on the spectacular Slea Head Drive is expected to be moving again in about three weeks, following the construction of a temporary stretch of road, Kerry County Council confirmed yesterday.

A 350-metre stretch is to be built about 20 metres inside the section where a major landslide occurred at the weekend near Dunquin.

Acting county manager Tom Curran said work would commence straight away and the Slea Head loop, one of the country’s most popular tourist routes, would be reopened in three to four weeks.

At present, several miles of the loop are closed to traffic.

Mr Curran estimated it would take two to three months to build the permanent stretch.

Meanwhile, current diversion points near Ventry and Dunquin are to be manned daily by council staff.

Staff will inform road users of the situation and assure them all businesses and attractions are accessible.

Coaches can also continue to drive as far as Coomeenole. The council has also agreed to examine concerns of Blasket ferrymen operating from Dunquin.