Roadworks spark business chaos

ROADWORKS and resulting traffic disruption are causing absolute chaos to business in Carrigaline, Co Cork.

I am appalled by the apparent lack of planning associated with this lengthy project.

While the work is very necessary, basic measures should have been put in place to minimise disruption in the town and environs.

It would not have taken an engineer to realise that by funnelling all traffic towards the Crosshaven road and the relief road area of the town without implementing necessary alternatives and adjustments to traffic light sequencing, gridlock would be inevitable.

Measures that could have been taken to minimise disruption include:

* Following the Australian model whereby all works on key routes and thoroughfares are undertaken at night.

* Alternative detours made available, in this case a route down Forrest Road could have been highlighted, splitting the rerouted traffic and taking the pressure off the eastern artery.

* Consultation with local businesses and interest groups.

* Garda intervention at major junctions during peak times.

* Temporary cessation of some of the pedestrian lights (there are currently three sets operating on the bypass).

* An increase in public transport servicing Carrigaline

My business in the Kilnagleary Business Park, off the Crosshaven road, has suffered a 30% decline since the works commenced.

It is clear, through conversations with the few customers who are still battling the gridlock to get to me, that this dramatic decline is primarily due to the lack of planning which is causing this gridlock.

In already difficult times this added pressure on our business has potentially devastating consequences.

I implore our local representatives to raise these suggestions with council officials so that future projects can be implemented with minimal disruption.

Billy O’Mahony

Crosshaven Road

Carrigaline

Co Cork