Funding need due to chronic traffic gridlock ‘grinding Little Island to halt’

An industrial powerhouse in Cork contributing €30m in rates is grinding to a halt due to traffic gridlock.

Tens of thousands of workers are employed at businesses and major companies in Little Island, located east of the city.

Cork County Council’s chief executive Tim Lucey yesterday warned it was “critical” that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority (NTA) release funding to resolve the chronic traffic gridlock there.

His comment came after several councillors said Little Island was grinding to a halt and could not attract further industry unless its roads infrastructure was seriously upgraded.

Cllr Padraig O’Sullivan (FF), who grew up in Little Island, said ratepayers there were getting a raw deal.

He also said it was not fair on residents faced with traffic chaos during peak periods.

He believes the best way to tackle the problem is for a third entry point, eastwards near the Cobh junction.

In a report presented to the full council chamber yesterday, council engineers revealed as far back as 2006 recommendations had been made to upgrade roads in the area. Progress was dependent on the availability of government funding which was not currently available.

Little Island Business Association (LIBA) estimates ratepayers contribute €30m yearly.

Post-recession, it emerged more businesses are opening there which is adding to the pressure on roads, Cllr O’Sullivan said.

“Ratepayers have been left with a defunct infrastructure. The council should engage with TII on improving the network there and providing a third entrance off the N25. Something has to be done immediately to rectify the traffic chaos,” he said.

Cllr Anthony Barry (FG) said rush-hour traffic problems remained a serious impediment to attracting more industry. He noted many people are using their cars to get to work there rather than taking trains.

“I know that couriers will not go into Little Island during peak times because of the traffic situation,” said Cllr Ger Keohane (Ind).

Mr Lucey advised the council had approved various improvement works on roads in Little Island as far back as 2006, but funding was an issue.

“Yes, Little Island has been a success and is challenged now in terms of its access points,” Mr Lucey said.

He said rates contributions from businesses in Little Island were used all over the county to pay for infrastructure improvements, as were rates collected everywhere else.

“However, I accept the fact that Little Island does need critical attention and we are trying to press the buttons of the funding agencies for that,” he added.

Cllr Sinead Sheppard (FG) said the county council approved planning permission for all the businesses which existed in Little Island and so should be responsible for providing the appropriate infrastructure.